Major injury concerns for Bulls
Mon, 11 Aug 2008 08:44
Zane Kirchner, Francois van Schouwenburg, Danie Rossouw and probably Derick Kuün, as well as Akona Ndungane, will not be able to play for the title-chasing Blue Bulls against the Griquas in their Currie Cup encounter at Loftus Versfeld on Friday.
Kirchner injured his ribs in the 27-30 loss against the Lions at the weekend and he is going to be on the sideline for four to six weeks, while Van Schouwenburg's hand injury will keep him out of action for at least six weeks.
Rossouw received a call-up from the Springbok camp to replace Bakkies Botha, who picked up a knee injury against Argentina, and as a result he will train with the Boks as they prepare for the Test against the All Blacks that will take place at Newlands on Saturday.
Coach Frans Ludeke said on Monday morning that Kuün, who is carrying a hamstring injury, is a doubtful starter for the Griquas match, while Ndungane will have more clarity over his hip injury later in the week.
Tiger Mangweni will in all probability replace Kirchner in the No.15 jersey, but it is not yet certain who will play at lock for the Blue Bulls against the Griquas.
Wilhelm Steenkamp will be there, but his partner in the second can be any one of Juandré Kruger, Fudge Mabeta, Hendrik Roodt or even Pedrie Wannenburg.
