Springbok loose forward Pierre Spies is determined to put the disappointment of missing World Cup glory behind him and strive towards a miraculous comeback in next year's Super 14.

Spies was named in Jake White’s RWC squad but had to withdraw once tests revealed he had blood clots on the lungs. Initially there were fears for his life, let alone his immediate playing future. Now it appears his blossoming rugby career is firmly back on track.

The young No 8 was instrumental for the Bulls as they won this year's Super 14 title and he will get the chance to defend their title after being named in the provisional training squad of 47 which assembles next week.

It will be no easy ride back into the starting XV, however, with former Springbok teammates Pedrie Wannenburg and Danie Rossouw both battling for the hotly contested No 9 spot.

The team will also be watching the selection of Jake White’s replacement particularly closely, with Bulls coach Heyneke Meyer currently a strong favourite to take over the Springbok reins. If Meyer does get the job then Pote Human would take over at the Bulls.

Sharks coach Dick Muir has also joined the race for the job after hearing White was not reapplying. The departing coach appears to have given Muir his full support.

"I think it is exciting that Dick, as a former Springbok, and a Super 14 coach, wants to coach the Springboks,” White says.

"He understands the ethos of the Boks, he has been through the system and if he was the successful applicant there would be valuable continuity for the squad.