Springbok flyhalf Derick Hougaard fighting for his life in Pretoria hospital

Former Springbok flyhalf Derick Hougaard is fighting for his life in a Pretoria hospital after reportedly not waking up for seven days.

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According to a Netwerk24 report, a source close to the matter confirmed that Hougaard has spent the past week unconscious in intensive care with severe inflammation of his lungs.

Hougaard was said to be feeling nauseous on the morning of Friday, 9 June and was last conscious that evening.

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Hougaard, now 40, played more than 110 matches for the Bulls in all competitions between 2002 and 2008, helping the Pretoria side win the 2007 Super 14 title.

He also enjoyed stints at Leicester Tigers and Saracens in England.

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He played eight Tests for the Springboks, making his debut against Uruguay in Perth during the 2003 Rugby World Cup.

Hougaard played his final Test against the All Blacks in Christchurch in July 2007.

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He scored 69 points for the Springboks thanks to two tries, 13 conversions, 10 penalties and one drop goal and was on the winning side in four of his Tests.

Since hanging up his boots, Hougaard has tried his hand at a career in the NFL and took part in a celebrity boxing match against South African musician Francois van Coke.

The South African website extends its thoughts and wishes to Hougaard.

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