The Stormers suffered another setback ahead of Saturday’s Champions Cup opener against Toulon in Gqeberha with captain Dan du Plessis joining star utility back Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu on the sidelines.
Stormers forwards coach Rito Hlungwani said apart from Feinberg-Mngomezulu being out with concussion sustained in the 21-15 defeat against the Sharks in Durban at the weekend, Du Plessis is also battling to overcome a leg injury and according to Netwerk24 the centre will be ruled out for a week or two.
Double injury blow
Feinberg-Mngomezulu was forced off the field against the Sharks due to a head knock and was replaced by fellow Springboks playmaker Manie Libbok, while Du Plessis was limping at the end of that match and is currently receiving treatment for his injury.
With Du Plessis set to miss the clash against the French heavyweights, the question is who will replace him in the Stormers‘ run-on side alongside fellow centre Ruan Nel.
There are several candidates to fulfill that role and Hlungwani mentioned established players like Du Plessis’ cousin Jean-Luc, Suleiman Hartzenberg and Wandisile Simelane as well as youngsters like Jonathan Roche and Josh Boulle as possible replacements.
“It might also be a good time to give a young player who shows potential an opportunity,” said Hlungwani.
Roche shone at Currie Cup level before being ruled out with a lengthy injury but he has recovered and could be given a chance to make the step up to the Champions Cup.
“I think he is ready. It’s just a case of us being brave enough to give him the opportunity,” added Hlungwani.
‘He is a very good player’
“We can’t wait for when he’s 23 or 24. We have to give him a chance when there is an opportunity. He is a very good player.”
Hlungwani said the Stormers are expecting a tough challenge against Toulon, who have won the Champions Cup on three occasions.
“We have great respect for Toulon and the quality of the French league is reflected in how the national team plays. French rugby is standing strong,” he said.
Src: Planetrugby.com - https://www.planetrugby.com/news/stormers-injury-woes-compounded-as-another-key-player-joins-sacha-feinberg-mngomezulu-on-the-sidelines-for-toulon-clash
