Burger was forced to depart the field early during the 16-9 defeat in Perth but de Villiers believes the Springbok No6 will be available for selection ahead of South Africa’s remaining Tri Nations fixtures.  

“I don’t think his injury is serious,” said de Villiers, who saw his side earn a win and a losing bonus point from their three away matches in the southern hemisphere’s premier international tournament.

“The team doctor looked at him and he is going to Cape Town to check up on him again, but he should be ready for the home leg.”

De Villiers’ assessment will be a huge relief to the South African public, especially given the fact that Burger already has a history of neck damage.

The 25-year-old Stormer missed a large chunk of the 2006 season after picking up a neck injury that eventually required surgery.