The physical nature of the Vodacom Super Rugby clash between the Cell C Sharks and Waratahs at Growthpoint KINGS PARK resulted in unfortunate injuries on Saturday night.
Team Doctor Alan Kourie on Monday afternoon advised of the injuries to two players who left the field.
Captain Pat Lambie suffered a back injury in a tackle and suffered a fractured vertebrae in his lower back. Said Dr Kourie: “It is difficult to say exactly how long the approximate length of recovery will be in Pat’s case, as he undergoes further scans today, but his return is estimated at six to eight weeks.
Head coach Robert du Preez saidon Saturday night that there were always going to be personnel changes during the tournament, as per the directive from SA Rugby to rest Springboks in a plan to manage game time.
With the Easter weekend bye coming up next month, Pat looks likely to return for the late run of South African derbies at a critical juncture in our schedule.
Philip van der Walt suffered an undisplaced fractured cheekbone in a clash of heads and he will not be available this weekend. He will be reassessed next week to determine his availability.
Hooker Franco Marais and fullback Clement Poitrenaud will undergo further tests to determine their availability for this match.
There has been weekly improvement of the last three matches, and with a strong emphasis on maintaining that steady progress, we will be looking to deliver a powerful, determined and accurate performance come 7.30pm on Saturday evening.
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