Kriel blow for Blue Bulls

Cape Town - The Blue Bulls have received a blow with the news that utility back Dan Kriel is sidelined with a shoulder injury.

According to team doctor Herman Rossouw, Kriel aggravated a previous shoulder injury in last Friday’s 49-35 Currie Cup Premier Division win over the Eastern Province Kings in Port Elizabeth.

“He will consult a specialist today (Monday), but he is unlikely to partake in any of the matches for the next three to four weeks,” said Rossouw.

Good news for the Bulls was the return to training of centre Dries Swanepoel, wing Travis Ismaiel and flanks Nick de Jager and Roelof Smit.

A final call on their availability will be made on Tuesday.

Rossouw said lock Jason Jenkins is still sidelined with a knee injury which will keep him sidelined for another three to four weeks), while wing Jade Stighling (ankle) is out for the remainder of the season.

The Bulls tackle the Sharks in Durban this Saturday (18:10 kick-off).