Injuries ravage Sharks Cage
Fri, 16 May 2008 00:24
Sharks coach Dick Muir is sweating over the fitness of several top Springboks in his squad, as they prepare for the most important Super 14 league game of the season.
The Durban-based franchise require a bonus-point win, probably with a huge points difference to boot, when they tackle the Chiefs in an attempt to qualify for back-to-back play-off appearances.
Although the Sharks versus Chiefs encounter in Durban is the final match of Round 14 - meaning both teams will know exactly what is required for both to reach the play-offs - injuries are now beginning to pose as big a threat to the home team as the dangerous rivals from New Zealand.
The Sharks are likely to face the Chiefs without the services of two key Springboks - centre Francois Steyn and tighthead prop BJ Botha.
With captain and lock Johann Muller also still a doubtful starter, Muir has been unable to name his starting XV for Saturday's encounter.
While Steyn and Botha are almost certain to be "non starters", Muir is hopeful that Muller will be passed fit.
Steyn damaged a rib cartilage in the 33-14 win against the Cheetahs last Saturday, while Botha suffered a calf strain in the same game.
Brad Barritt is set to return in midfield in place of Steyn, with Jannie du Plessis set to replace fellow Springbok Botha in the front row.
Another Bok, Deon Carstens, could come onto the bench.
If Muller, who has battled with injury for the past few weeks, is cleared to play, he will partner Steven Sykes in the second row. Albert van den Berg will then drop down to the bench and Johan Ackermann will drop out of the matchday 22 altogether.
If Muller is ruled out, Van den Berg and Ackermann will start in the second row, with Sykes on the bench.
