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Cape Town - Daniel du Plessis looks likely to start in midfield for the Stormers when they tackle the Southern Kings in a Super Rugby clash in Port Elizabeth on Saturday.
For the second week in a row, Stormers coach Robbie Fleck must find a centre partner for EW Viljoen.
After Damian de Allende injured his ankle in the Stormers’ season-opener against the Bulls, Dan Kriel was picked alongside Viljoen in midfield for last weekend’s match against the Jaguares at Newlands.
But the Stormers confirmed on Monday that Kriel suffered a suffered a lateral knee sprain and will not be available for this weekend’s clash against the Kings.
This paves the way for Du Plessis to come into the midfield as Viljoen’s centre partner.
Twenty-one-year-old Du Plessis, who made his Super Rugby debut last year, is the son of legendary former Western Province flyhalf/centre Michael du Plessis.
He however won’t get the chance to play alongside his cousin, Jean-Luc - son of another WP legend Carel - after the flyhalf suffered a groin strain against the Jaguares.
The Stormers announced that Kriel and Jean-Luc du Plessis will be rested as a precaution.
Meanwhile, the Cape franchise also confirmed that outside back Cheslin Kolbe will miss the Kings game due to an ankle injury.
Seabelo Senatla should take Kolbe’s spot on the wing, while Robert du Preez will take the No 10 jersey.
Saturday’s clash at Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium is scheduled for 17:15.
