The Stormers are facing an injury crisis at lock ahead of their Super Rugby clash against the Blues in Auckland this weekend.
With Eben Etzebeth still on the road to recovery after suffering a head knock in their clash against the Jaguares two weeks ago, Salmaan Moerat and JD Schickerling are now both doubts ahead of this weekend’s clash.
Schickerling suffered a shoulder injury in the 34-28 defeat to the Hurricanes, while Moerat left the field with a concussion.
To make matters worse, Pieter-Steph du Toit might also be on his way back to Cape Town soon to be with his wife when she gives birth.
On top of this, replacement Jaco Coetzee also suffered a head knock against the Canes, meaning the Stormers will be thin up front this weekend.
SHOULDER: JD Schickerling. Photo: Muzi Ntombela/Backpagepix
Forwards coach Russell Winter explains: “Salmaan and Jaco left the field due to a concussion, they are being tested but we will give them until Thursday. We are hoping they are going to come through.”
Of the Blues, who beat the Highlanders for the first time in three seasons last weekend, Winter says: “They’re are a dangerous side.
“Of that is no doubt. They just narrowly lost to the Crusaders and have won their last two games. Beating the Highlanders at home is not easy, so they definitely have a lot of confidence at the moment.”