NEL PROUD TO BE CAPE CRUSADER
STORMERS V EDINBURGH
TODAY, 3.05PM
EDINBURGH coach Sean Everitt has urged his team to make it “a special day” for WP Nel when the veteran plays his 200th game for the club today.
The 37-year-old Scotland prop began his career in Cape Town, so it will be full circle for him when he turns out in the URC match against the Stormers in the South African city.
Everitt said: “We’re delighted to see WP hit 200 appearances for the club. He’s an Edinburgh legend and it’ll be an extremely proud moment for him and his family when he takes to the pitch.
“It’s great that WP is able to get his 200th game here in Cape Town. He is from a little town close to Cape Town so it’s going to be quite special for his family and friends.
“This team doesn’t need any added motivation but I’ve got no doubt they’ll be playing with a bit of extra fire to make it a special day for WP.”
It will also be a special day for Scotland Sevens winger Jake Henry, who is at last making his pro debut at 23 after a couple of seasons blighted by injury.
“It’s a great opportunity for Jake Henry to put his hand up, for Edinburgh rugby as well as for Scotland rugby,” Everitt said.
“He’s been through some adversity with all the injuries that he’s had to deal with over the last couple of years, so I’m proud that he’s managed to work his way back and earn a spot in the team this weekend.”
Henry gets his chance as three Scotland internationals are out – Duhan van der Merwe is rested while Harry Paterson and Darcy Graham are still injured.
Van der Merwe is due to return against the Sharks next week, Paterson should be back from a foot injury next month and Graham by the play-offs.