Wallaby Vickerman battling back from surgeries

Wallaby lock Dan Vickerman is expected to play again in April following shoulder and leg surgery, according to the New South Wales Waratahs.

Waratahs officials said the former South African forward was making good progress from shoulder reconstruction last year.

Vickerman is also receiving treatment for bone stress to his right tibia after surgery in 2010 to have a rod inserted into the bone which allowed him to play in last year's Rugby World Cup in New Zealand.

Team officials said Vickerman is still suffering pain from lower leg stress and despite trying many therapeutic measures is in considerable discomfort.

A spokesman said: "He is making good progress from a shoulder reconstruction last year, with a return to full fitness predicted for April."

The Australian Rugby Union and Waratahs Rugby say they are working together to fully assess Vickerman's situation and the further treatment options.