Sharks suffer blow as Nkosi pulls out

The Sharks have lost Sbu Nkosi for their crucial Super Rugby match against the Jaguares in Durban tomorrow and the exciting winger is maybe also out of Springbok contention for the Rugby Championship.

Coach Robert du Preez revealed yesterday that Nkosi has broken a bone in his foot and will be out of action for at least a couple of months.

“It looks like Sbu is going to be out for eight weeks, he has a little fracture in the bottom of his foot, which is heartbreaking for him. But Kobus van Wyk has done really well for us with his cameos, every time he has come on he has made a big impact. He’s obviously been wanting more extended time,” Du Preez said.

While the Sharks were well off their best last weekend in their crucial loss to the Stormers in Cape Town, Du Preez has thought better than to make widespread changes for their must-win match against the Argentinians. The only other change to the starting line-up sees Tendai Mtawarira returning to the No 1 jersey and Juan Schoeman back on the bench.

No 8 Dan du Preez has been cleared to play after leaving the field early on against the Stormers and being taken to hospital after a blow to the neck.

“We got quite a big fright with Dan, but all the scans were clear and it’s great to have him back,” coach Du Preez said of his son.

“For us it all depends on what happens between the Rebels and Highlanders, hopefully the Rebels lose and then it will all be in our hands,” Du Preez said.