The Sharks have been dealt an injury blow on their United Rugby Championship tour of Europe, with captain Andre Esterhuizen among three players returning to Durban for further assessment.
Esterhuizen, who injured his right ankle, prop Phatu Ganyane and centre Jurenzo Julius will undergo scans and consult specialists after picking up injuries during the Sharks’ 36-21 victory over Cardiff Rugby at Arms Park on Friday.
The win kept alive the Sharks’ hopes of completing their three-week tour unbeaten after they began with a Challenge Cup victory against Lyon in France last week.
JP Pietersen’s side conclude their European trip against Munster in Ireland on Saturday, but will have to do so without three players who featured in Cardiff.
Esterhuizen’s injury is also a concern for the Springboks, who begin their November European tour next week. South Africa are scheduled to play four matches during the second part of the inaugural Nations Championship season, with the Sharks centre’s availability now uncertain.
There was better news regarding lock Jason Jenkins, who also left the field against Cardiff. The Sharks confirmed that Jenkins was fit enough to be considered for selection against Munster.
Pietersen has called up Cameron Dawson, Litelihle Bester and Suleiman Hartzenberg for Saturday’s match as the Sharks attempt to maintain their winning momentum despite the disruption.
The Durban-based side will now await the results of the injured trio’s assessments, with Esterhuizen’s condition likely to attract particular attention as the Springboks prepare for a demanding month in Europe.
