Former Springboks first-five Derick Hougaard is reportedly fighting for his life, after falling into a coma almost a week ago.
According to South African publication Netwerk24, the former Bulls star hasn't woken up in the past six days and is in intensive care at a Pretoria hospital.
The report claims he has been battling inflammation of the lungs and felt nauseous after going to sleep last week. He was then taken to the hospital the next day.
Affectionately known as the 'Sweetheart of Loftus Versfeld Stadium', Hougaard, 40, played 43 games for the Bulls, winning a Super Rugby title in 2007.
His 27-point haul in the semi-final win over the Crusaders tied former Blues fullback Adrian Cashmore's record.
At just 20, he made his Springboks debut at the 2003 Rugby World Cup, earning eight caps over his international career.
Hougaard also enjoyed stints in England with Leicester Tigers and Saracens, before retiring from rugby in 2012.