The Sharks will be without Lukhanyo Am for the Challenge Cup final against Gloucester on Friday, but expect Eben Etzebeth, Ethan Hooker and Vincent Koch to be fit for the clash in London.
Neil Powell reported mixed injury news during an online press conference on Tuesday, with the Sharks director of rugby confirming that scrumhalf Jaden Hendrikse and captain Am will miss the big game at the Tottenham Hotspur stadium.
Hendrikse is still recovering from an injury he suffered against Scarlets in Llanelli last month, while Am was one of three Springboks – Eben Etzebeth and Vincent Koch the others – that limped off in the first half of the match against Benetton in Durban two weeks ago
“Am is going to be out for a while. I am not sure about the extent of his injury,” Powell said. He has a shoulder injury that he is struggling with and a fractured rib. He will be out for quite a few weeks. It’s definitely the end of the URC and EPCR campaign for him.
“It’s always a big loss to not have your national players and also your captain. Lukhanyo has been really good for us this season. In knockout games, you want your senior players to be available. So it is a bit of a big loss for us.”
The good news to offset the loss of Am, is that breakthrough centre Ethan Hooker has recovered from the ankle injury he suffered in the Challenge Cup semi-final against Clermont and could take his place at outside centre on Friday night, likely alongside veteran Francois Venter.
“I think we have capable replacements. Ethan Hooker has done well to put up his hand and show that he can play at this level,” Powell said.
Powell also confirmed that Etzebeth and Koch are expected to be fit for the final, in what will be a major boost for the Sharks, who will automatically qualify for next season’s Champions Cup if they beat Gloucester.
Photo: Steve Haag Sports/Gallo Images
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Src: sarugbymag.co.za
