Backline boost for WP

INJURY UPDATE: Western Province, desperate to stay in the Currie Cup play-off race, received a timely boost on Monday.

Province (with 26 points) is fourth on the standings – behind the Bulls (35), Lions (29) and Sharks (28).

WP host Griquas at Newlands on Saturday, with several high-profile players returning from injury after last week’s timely bye.

Following two narrow losses to the Bulls and Lions, Province found that fortune favours the brave – as they secured a bonus point in extra time of their 28-14 win against the Pumas in Week Three.

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Dawie Snyman, the backline and attack coach, revealed that slippery wing Sergeal Petersen has recovered from a significant quad injury that has sidelined him for some time.

He is fit and available to start at Newlands.

Flyhalf Tim Swiel, who suffered a nasty knock to the face against the Pumas, looks set to start in the No.10 jersey again.

“He is also looking quite good,” Snyman said.

Another player likely to add to their strike power in the backline is Sevens star Ruhan Nel, who has recovered from the ankle injury he suffered against the Lions.

There was also some good news among the forwards – especially at tighthead prop.

A rash of illness and COVID-19 cases – which caused coach John Dobson to fear he might have to call off the game against the Pumas – resulted in rookie Lee-Marvin Mazibuko playing a full 80 minutes.

However, Snyman confirmed that Neethling Fouche had started training again and was undergoing his return-to-play protocol – after getting concussed against the Lions.

The rest of the tighthead props, including World Cup-winning Springbok Frans Malherbe, have also been training.

The team expects their COVID-19 test results to be known by Tuesday, latest.

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