Stormers shed light on Malherbe mystery

The DHL Stormers have explained the details around the injury that has prevented Frans Malherbe from returning to action after the World Cup.

One of four Stormers who helped the Springboks win the 2023 World Cup, Malherbe has been on the sidelines since returning from the tournament in France.

During a press conference on Tuesday afternoon, assistant coach Dawie Snyman confirmed that the veteran tighthead prop has been sidelined with a back injury.

Malherbe will miss Saturday’s Vodacom URC derby against the Vodacom Bulls, but Snyman is hopeful that he will return soon.

“He’s on a bit more of a long-term programme to get back, so he’s not available. I’m not sure exactly what date he’ll be available, but he’s in the facility at the moment doing his rehab and getting himself ready to play again,” Snyman explained.

“It’s a previous injury that he’s had with us. He probably [aggravated it] in the World Cup because after the World Cup he came back and saw a few specialists.

“But he’s actually up and running with us at the moment, so hopefully we can see him back on the field.”

The Stormers will also be without Ben Loader for Saturday’s clash. The English wing scored his first try at DHL Stadium in the Champions Cup win over La Rochelle, but injured his shoulder during the match.

Snyman confirmed that Angelo Davids is on his way back, but the match against the Vodacom Bulls might come too soon for him to return from injury. Courtnall Skosan and Suleiman Hartzenberg are also in contention to start on the right wing.