Sharks lose Lambie

Editor

The Sharks have confirmed that Patrick Lambie sustained a back injury in their win over the Waratahs on Saturday.

Sharks Team Doctor Alan Kourie on Monday advised of the injuries to two players who left the field Lambie and flanker Philip van der Walt.

Lambie suffered a back injury in a tackle and suffered a fractured vertebrae in his lower back. Dr Kourie told the Sharks website, “It is difficult to say exactly how long the approximate length of recovery will be in Pat’s case, as he undergoes further scans today, but his return is estimated at six to eight weeks.”

Head coach Robert du Preez stated on Saturday night that there were always going to be personnel changes during the tournament, as per the directive from SA Rugby to rest Springboks in a plan to manage game time.

With the Easter weekend bye coming up next month, Lambie looks likely to return for the late run of South African derbies at a critical juncture in our schedule.

Van der Walt suffered an undisplaced fractured cheekbone in a clash of heads and he will not be available this weekend. He will be reassessed next week to determine his availability.

Hooker Franco Marais and full-back Clement Poitrenaud will undergo further tests to determine their availability for this match.