DHL Stormers injury report – 04/05/15
Botha suffered an ankle injury against the Cheetahs in Bloemfontein on Saturday – as the DHL Stormers went down 17-25 – and De Jongh has a hip pointer injury which saw him leave the field in the 23rd minute.
The DHL Stormers will host the Brumbies at DHL Newlands on Saturday, May 9 (kick-off 17h05).
Visit http://wprugby.computicket.com for all your ticketing needs ahead of this weekend – prices range from R80 (standing) to R90-140 (seating).
The full DHL Stormers injury report (04/05/15):
– Lock Ruan Botha (torn ankle ligaments) could be out for three to six weeks. He is in a moon boot at the moment, but at the Springbok training camp until Wednesday evening. The DHL Stormers team doctor will see him on Thursday to make a final call on the length of his lay-off, but he is definitely out of action this week.
– Outside centre Juan de Jongh has a hip pointer injury. It’s normally a ten-day injury, but more will be known about his availability when he returns from the Bok training camp.
– Utility back Jaco Taute is available but the initial plan is for him to play forty minutes of rugby for DHL Western Province in the Vodacom Cup.
– Flank Mike Rhodes (hamstring) is on the mend from his injury, but he is still about three weeks away from a return to action.
– Wing Kobus van Wyk (knee) has started with rehabilitation after coming out of his knee brace, but is still on track for a return against the Lions (on June 6).
– Flank Rynhardt Elstadt (ankle/leg injury – maisonneuve fracture) has started with rehabilitation, but will not be available in Super Rugby this year.
QUOTES FROM HEAD COACH ALLISTER COETZEE:
On the possible return of Jaco Taute:
“Giving him forty minutes in the Vodacom Cup is the initial plan, but with our injuries at present we could slot him into the team against a quality Brumbies outfit. It’s a decision we will still have to make and one we will make before Thursday’s team announcement.”
On bouncing back from Saturday’s loss to the Cheetahs:
“It’s a big one this weekend ahead of our bye, before three more home games. We’re still in a position to do well… Saturday wasn’t ideal but it’s not a train-smash and we know we can regroup and turn up with our usual desire (against the Brumbies).”
On facing the Brumbies this week:
“They’re a very good side. They’re very structured and don’t gift you any possession. They’re well coached and well organised in all aspects of their game. They’ve got a great maul and line-out (attacking-wise and defensively) and we really have to be up for this one.
“We’re bracing ourselves for one helluva clash. We have a good record at DHL Newlands and we want to make things right… straightaway!”
