Bok discard Du Preez takes centre stage
IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Flyhalf Robert du Preez will don the centre jersey when Sales Sharks host the Harlequins on Friday.
Du Preez, who was originally named on the bench, will now be part of the starting XV following a Covid-19 outbreak at Sale Sharks.
The Premiership club revealed that centre Manu Tuilagi came into close contact with a member of staff, who tested positive for the Covid-19 virus.
The club stated that there were no additional positive COVID-19 tests and all other players will return to full training next week.
The member of staff, who has not been named, has been quarantined and is being monitored.
Du Preez ‘s spot on the bench will be taken by Aaron Reed taking the South African’s place among the replacements.
Sale Sharks have already qualified for a play-off spot following their win over Bristol Bears last weekend.
However, Sale Director of Rugby Alex Sanderson has a major concern as six of the club’s South Africa contingent are in contentions to called up by the Springboks for the British and Irish Lions series.
There are 11 South African on Sale’s books this season and the Du Preez twins Dan and Jean-Luc, Coenie Oosthuizen, Akker van der Merwe, Faf De Klerk, and Lood de Jager are all part of Springbok coach Jacques Nienaber’s plan.
The other five which include Robert du Preez, centre Rohan Janse van Rensburg, JP Du Preez, Cobus Wiese and Jono Ross are seemingly not in contentions.
