The Sharks face a mixed bag of injury news following their 24-20 loss to the Stormers. While key players like Andre Esterhuizen and Aphelele Fassi are set for spells on the sidelines, the Durban-based side is set to welcome back Eben Etzebeth and Bongi Mbonambi ahead of their Champions Cup clash against Toulouse on 11 January
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Key Updates:
1. Andre Esterhuizen Out for 4-6 Weeks
- The powerhouse centre sustained a knee injury during the Stormers game after a contentious cleanout by Jean-Luc du Plessis.
- Coach John Plumtree confirmed that Esterhuizen’s injury will not require surgery but may sideline him for up to six weeks.
2. Aphelele Fassi and Emile van Heerden Await Specialist Reports
- Fassi is undergoing assessment for a significant ankle injury, with his return timeline yet to be confirmed.
- Lock Emile van Heerden is also consulting specialists for a knee issue sustained in the same match.
3. Eben Etzebeth and Bongi Mbonambi Cleared for Return
- Bok lock Etzebeth is expected to make his return after completing his final concussion protocol.
- Mbonambi will undergo a final X-ray but is likely to be fit for the Toulouse fixture.
4. Fitness Concerns Remain for Other Key Players
- Lukhanyo Am, Vincent Tshituka, and James Venter are undergoing fitness tests to determine their readiness for selection.
What’s Next for the Sharks?
The Sharks face French giants Toulouse in the Champions Cup on 11 January, a critical match for their European ambitions. With Etzebeth and Mbonambi set to return, Plumtree hopes to offset the impact of losing Esterhuizen and potentially Fassi.