Johannesburg – Flyhalf Elton Jantjies is likely to make his return from injury this week, after working out in a “controlled environment” with lock Eben Etzebeth, according to Stormers coach Allister Coetzee.
The Stormers trained in Auckland on Monday morning ahead of their first Vodacom Super Rugby tour match against the Hurricanes in Palmerston North on Friday.
“Elton and Eben are probably around 60 percent ready to play,” Coetzee said.
“Elton is looking particularly fine and he will be considered, although most likely he will start out on the bench.”
Etzebeth was unlikely to be considered until their second tour match.
Coetzee was pleased with the form shown at training of wing Bryan Habana, flank Ryhardt Elstadt and hooker Scarra Ntubeni, all returning from injury, and he felt their claims could not be ignored, even in the interests of selection continuity.
The Western Cape side defeated the Sharks 22-15 in their previous match, ahead of last week's bye, with a host of experienced players sidelined through injury.
“The team that played against the Sharks did a superb job but we have a chance to draw on experienced players now and that's something that's of great benefit to the team,” said Coetzee.
“Continuity is one thing but more important is the balance of the team.
“Habana's experience adds value, although Damian de Allende has done well out on the wing.
“We're here to do a job. The players have done well, and I could see at training that there was a nice energy and we're looking forward to stepping up preparations.”
Coetzee was wary of the challenge posed by the Hurricanes.
“This (Hurricanes squad) is a really good all-round team that boasts great strength in the backline,” said Coetzee.
“We need to make sure that we play with accuracy and execute well. We will have to show respect for the ball.” – Sapa