CAPE TOWN – Stormers flyhalf Jean-Luc du Plessis has been ruled out for the remainder of the year with a hip injury.
Du Plessis was initially expected to spend four to six weeks on the sidelines with a groin injury sustained during the Stormers’ 32-25 win over the Jaguares early in March, but the 23-year-old will undergo surgery on his hip this week.
In more positive news for Robbie Fleck’s charges, hooker Scarra Ntubeni, centre Dan du Plessis and flanks Rynhardt Elstadt and Steph de Wit will all return to full training next week.
Ntubeni makes his return from an Achilles tendon tear sustained during Currie Cup action last year, while Du Plessis was able to avoid undergoing surgery on his shoulder that he dislocated against the Crusaders in Christchurch.
Elstadt has recovered from a fractured rib, and De Wit is back after breaking his ankle in pre-season.
The Stormers can also expect a midfield boost in five weeks’ time, with Huw Jones recovering well from a hamstring injury.
Flyhalf Rob du Preez (torn pectoral muscle), lock Jan de Klerk (broken toe) and flank Cobus Wiese (shoulder) are all expected to make their return in three months’ time.
@WynonaLouw