Stormers sweating over Sacha and Damian's fitness

THE Stormers have started their preparations for this week’s north-south derby with the Bulls on the back foot due to a host of injuries to backline players, according to defence coach Norman Laker, who added that superstars Damian Willemse and Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu might not make it.

- MIKE GREENAWAY

DAMIAN Willemse missed the Lions game two weeks ago, not because of Springbok resting protocols, but because of an injury. | Backpagepix

The Springbok pair missed the Lions game two weeks ago, not because of Springbok resting protocols but because of injuries, Laker clarified, and they are in a race against time to recover for the Bulls derby.

If they both cry off, Jurie Mat-thee would continue at 10. Ideally, the Stormers need Feinberg-Mngomezulu to start at flyhalf and Willemse to play at 12, as injuries have struck the midfield.

The invaluable Ruhan Nel has a serious calf injury and could be out for up to eight weeks, while inside centre Jonathan Roche and utility back Wandisile Simelane suffered hand fractures against the Lions; it is unclear whether they will be ready for the Bulls match.