The pair were included in the squad for the two Tests however, both have just recovered from injuries.

Steyn had a hamstring niggle while Vermeulen underwent a procedure to his knee.

Nienaber said they are in the squad in order to be assessed by their medical staff and to get back into the mix.

“Duane hasn't had a rugby session with us yet. It would be tough for him to get into the mix. In a sense, he's still busy with his return-to-play protocol,” said Nienaber about Vermeulen who hails from the Lowveld.

“Frans is training with us, he started the pre-season with the Cheetahs last week already. So he's already got a week under his belt.

“We'd rather have a good look at them with our medical staff to assess where they are and then make a decision after this incoming leg of the Rugby Championship.

“The main thing is, they first have to handle this week's load, and it's only still Wednesday. We still have a Friday session to come too as well as next week's match preparation, after which we'll have to make a decision.

“The key thing was just to get them in, see where they're at and what their conditioning currently is. We also want to put them in our rugby environment and see how they might cope.

“Then we can make an informed decision on selection.”

Next week Saturday’s Test between the Springboks and All Blacks at the Mbombela Stadium kicks off at 17:05.

Morgan Piek OFM Sport