Share

Triple boost for Stormers

Cape Town - There was good news on Monday for Stormers coach for Allister Coetzee as lock Eben Etzebeth, wing Gio Aplon and flank Siya Kolisi were all cleared for full team training and are available to play in their home Super Rugby semi-final next Saturday.

Video: Horrific hit on Gio Aplon    

Etzebeth hasn't played the last two weeks after a gruelling Test series for the Springboks against England.

Aplon took a knock to the head when he collided with team-mate Rynhardt Elstadt in the 26-21 win over the Rebels on Saturday, while Kolisi also limped off at half-time.

While Coetzee was happy about his star trio's availability for the Newlands semi-final, it looks unlikely that loose forwards Duane Vermeulen and Schalk Burger will be ready.

“Duane Vermeulen and Schalk Burger are both also progressing really well, but both still remain doubtful starters for the semi. Both will undergo final assessments on Thursday as to their availability to participate in team training next week and as to their potential availability for the playoff,” said Coetzee.

“We are in pretty good shape, injury wise, for this stage of the competition. It has been a gruelling couple of months. The players have the luxury of three days downtime before regrouping on Thursday for training and preparation.”
 
We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Voting Booth
Should Siya Kolisi keep the captaincy as the Springboks build towards their World Cup title defence in 2027?
Please select an option Oops! Something went wrong, please try again later.
Results
Yes! Siya will only be 36 at the next World Cup. He can make it!
25% - 1273 votes
No! I think the smart thing to do is start again with a younger skipper ...
29% - 1473 votes
I'd keep Siya captain for now, but look to have someone else for 2027.
45% - 2252 votes
Vote
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE