Du Toit boost for Boks
The Boks' team doctor Konrad von Hagen confirmed that Du Toit's concussion recovery is progressing well. The 24-year-old missed Saturday's 18-17 win over France after receiving a head knock a week earlier in his side's 3-38 loss to Ireland in Dublin.
"Pieter-Steph is busy with the last steps of his return to play protocols but I expect him to be available for selection," said Von Hagen.
"A few players will sit out training on Monday, but that is just part of our recovery protocols and they will be fine."
Meanwhile, Springbok captain Eben Etzebeth has a very good chance of recovering from his leg injury to lead the Springboks in their third tour match against the Italians.
"Eben left the field with about five minutes to go against France after receiving a direct blow to his lower leg.
"The x-rays we did on Sunday all came out normal. We expect it just to be a soft tissue injury and will manage it accordingly. He has a good chance to play on Saturday," the team doctor added.
Malcolm Marx went for an MRI scan on Monday, which showed no major damage to the shoulder injury he sustained in Paris. However, there was some soft tissue bruising and he will be given as much time as possible to recover.
Springbok head coach Allister Coetzee was especially pleased to have Du Toit back in training: "It's great to have Pieter-Steph back because he was excellent for us prior to the concussion.
"The whole idea for us this week is to play with our strongest possible team so that we can build more momentum and continuity.
"There will be opportunities for the wider group in the last match because that one falls outside the international window, which means that for the Wales Tests players based overseas, such as Duane Vermeulen (France), Francois Louw (England), Elton Jantjies and Francois Mostert (both Japan), will not be available for selection. That would obviously give opportunities for other players," said Coetzee.
The Springboks got their match preparation underway with a gym workout, with a field training session scheduled for later on Monday in Padova. Coetzee will announce his matchday squad on Thursday.
