Clash with Brumbies

FLANK Schalk Burger, one of the key figures in the Stormers line-up for tomorrow’s Super Rugby eliminator against the Brumbies, is in doubt for the big clash at Newlands.

Burger did not complete yesterday ’ s practice session because of a groin strain and there are fears that he will miss the match.

If Burger is ruled out of the clash, the Stormers will lose one of their primary ball carriers and defensive breakdown weapons. They are already without the injured Duane Vermeulen for the clash and without that pair of seasoned veterans the breakdown battle tips hugely in favour of the Australians.

Wallaby flank David Pocock, who looks set to play after making steady progress on his concussion protocols, is a menace on the deck at the best of times. Without Burger and Vermeulen to pressurise him, the Brumbies ’ chances of victory improve.

Stormers coach Allister Coetzee named Burger in the team but that might be more in hope than expectation. If Burger is ruled out, flank Sikhumbuzo Notshe should come into the squad with Michael Rhodes elevated to the starting line-up. Coetzee recalled all of his first choice players after they were rested for last weekend ’ s dead rubber against the Sharks in Durban.

Even though the Stormers lost the match 3412, Coetzee claims that they didn ’ t lose any momentum because key players enjoyed mental rest rather than physical rest. Brumbies coach Stephen Larkham also named a full strength team in an unchanged squad that lost to the Crusaders last weekend.