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Schalk Burger to miss South Africa's series with Ireland

Schalk Burger, South Africa
Image: Schalk Burger celebrates South Africa's third-place finish at the World Cup

South Africa flanker Schalk Burger will miss next month's three-Test series against Ireland after sustaining an ankle problem that will sideline him for up to five weeks.

The 33-year-old flanker was hurt playing for the Stormers against the Bulls in a Super Rugby match in Pretoria on Saturday.

There has been doubts about Burger's international future following last year's World Cup, but Stormers coach Robbie Fleck believes the back-row still wants to play for his country.

"I think he's always got those Springbok ambitions," Fleck said. "He's a quality Springbok and he approaches every week like he wants to play for the Springboks. I think the injury is a blow."

Burger, who has previously captained South Africa, has won 86 caps. 

South Africa coach Allister Coetzee will announce his squad for the series on Saturday evening. 

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The first match against Ireland takes place at Newlands, Cape Town on June 11, with the second Test the following Saturday at Johannesburg and the third in Port Elizabeth.

All three matches will be shown live on Sky Sports.

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