Kitshoff provides post-op update

NEWS: Stormers and Springbok prop Steven Kitshoff has shared a message on social media following his neck fusion surgery on Wednesday.

Stormers assistant coach Dawie Snyman provided feedback when questioned about Kitshoff’s injury in an online press conference on Monday, but the double world champion has since provided a clearer picture regarding his playing future.

“We haven’t spoken to the specialist or gotten any feedback from his doctors,” said Dawie Snyman – Stormers backline and attack coach.

“I actually went to him just as he came out of surgery, just spent a bit of time with him.

“No update in terms of his situation.

“The first thing is that we want him to recover and we’ll take it from there.”

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Kitshoff, who suffered the career-threatening neck injury while playing for Western Province in a Currie Cup match against Griquas, went under the knife on Wednesday for a neck fusion surgery of his C1 and C2 vertebrae.

Following various rumours regarding his playing career, Kitshoff shared an update on social media to clear up any confusion to the public.

It is clear that the former Stormers captain has not given up on playing the sport again, although it may take more than one season’s recovery for him to don the blue and white hoops and especially the green and gold as well.

“Thrilled to share that my operation was a big success!” Kitshoff said.

“A massive thank you to my incredible doctors and nurses for their amazing care, and to all my family, friends, and loyal supporters—your support means the world to me!

“It’s going to be a long recovery journey, but I’m excited for the future ahead. Please trust me for updates on my progress and don’t believe any other sources. Here’s to healing!”

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The Stormers have battled with injuries this season and will welcome back some key players ahead of the URC resuming this weekend, Snyman said.

“I think at this stage, probably only Sascha [Feinburg-Mngomzulu] that’s back from injury.

“Ben-Jason [Dixon] got injured in that game, but he’s looking fine. He’s been training with the squad.

“Ali [Vermaak] is also full in training and he’s actually looking good for his age.

“Going forward, a guy like Deon [Fourie] is almost ready.

“Frans [Malherbe] is not too far off, but I think over the next two or three games, there’s going to be a few guys that are ready for selection.

Salmaan Moerat is also very close, so hopefully we can get him on the pitch as soon as possible.”

The Stormers are still waiting for a few key squad members to return, with Evan Roos expected to return at the end of December and Damian Willemse only expected to return at the start of February.