Beast returns home after heart fears

Springbok prop Tendai "Beast" Mtawarira has been withdrawn from South Africa's European tour after missing Saturday's Test against Ireland in Dublin because of heart palpitations. The 27-year-old travelled with the Springbok squad to Edinburgh on Sunday but headed home on Monday.

Coach Heyneke Meyer said: "We've consulted with Beast and his cardiologist in Durban and although it's safe for him to play, we decided it would be best for him to return home and rest. The player's welfare is the most important consideration at this stage." Team doctor Craig Roberts said Mtawarira had an irregular heart rhythm – a hereditary condition – which was not life-threatening.