Double blow for Sharks
12/06/2024 12:05 PM
The Sharks' preparations for their Investec Champions Cup opener this week were disrupted, with injuries to two key players affecting head coach John Plumtree's plans.
Speaking in a Sharks team announcement conference, Plumtree revealed that Lukhanyo Am and Gerbrandt Grobler were hurt in last week's win over the DHL Stormers and ruled out for Saturday's clash against the Exeter Chiefs in Durban.
"We didn't have a great week last week and we picked up some injuries, and they weren't just soft tissue ones," Plumtree told the media on Friday.
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"Lukhanyo is not quite as bad, and we will have him back potentially after Christmas, but it is certainly a niggly week from an injury perspective."
Am, who fractured his forearm, faces a brief lay-off but will not require surgery. "It's a real small fracture, but it's serious enough to keep him out for a few weeks until it's healed," Plumtree added.
Grobler's injury is more severe. "Gerbrandt Grobler has had an operation, and his injury is potentially a longer period," Plumtree explained.
Despite these setbacks, the Sharks have named a formidable lineup for the EPCR clash at Kings Park. Eben Etzebeth returns as captain, leading a Springbok-laden match-day 23.
Photo: Steve Haag Sports/Gallo Images
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