Bulls midfielder Wynand Olivier is in race against time to be fit for his side's Super Rugby season opener against the Sharks on February 24th.

The most capped centre in the Bulls Super Rugby history is keen to add to his 87 caps and 25 tries in the Loftus Versfeld opener, but is recovering from an operation to repair a broken bone in his wrist.

According to the Bulls team doctor, Org Strauss, the Bulls vice-captain's anticipated return to the field will be in two weeks time - so chances are slim that the Springbok midfielder will be able to play at inside centre against the Sharks.

Francois Venter did play well in that position against the Cheetahs in last week's friendly in Polokwane and must be the favourite to start in the No.12 jersey.

Strauss had good news with regards to the injuries to Pierre Spies (calf strain), Jacques Potgieter (back), Dewald Potgieter (ankle) and Flip van der Merwe (calf), reporting that all will be back to full training next week.

Warwick Tecklenburg has also recovered fully from his shoulder operation and will be available for selection.

Morné Mellett (shoulder, three weeks) and Rossouw de Klerk (foot, three months) are the other longer term injuries - while Fudge Mabeta (knee, eight months) is out for the whole of the Super Rugby season.