Sharks coach John Plumtree is confident that Springbok trio Eben Etzebeth, Vincent Koch and Lukhanyo Am will be fit for a blockbuster Challenge Cup final as the men from Durban eye silverware to salvage an underwhelming campaign.
Plumtree revealed a strong side to take on Benneton in their United Rugby Championship clash on Saturday. But the afternoon did not go as planned. Not only did the Sharks let slip a comfortable lead to lose the match 25-24, but a trio of World Cup winners all left the field injured.
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With the Sharks preparing for the Challenge Cup final against Gloucester on 24 May, their availability is a concern. To protect resources, Springboks Ox Nche, Bongi Mbonambi and Grant Williams did not take the field in the second half.
Speaking to the press afterwards, Plumtree revealed while Etzebeth left the field for a Head Impact Assessment, the worry is his neck.
“What he is complaining about now is his neck,” said Plumtree.
“He is heading to the physio for treatment, but I don’t think he will be too bad.”
As for feared scrummager Koch, Plumtree shared the physiotherapist’s assessment.
“The physio wasn’t too concerned about it,” he added.
“I’m hoping that it won’t be too serious.”
As for outside centre Am, Plumtree revealed he injured his sternoclavicular joint.
The Sharks host lowly Cardiff this coming Saturday in their final fixture before jetting off to London, where they have a chance to claim some much-needed silverware.
Another reason to come back stronger.
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