Senatla boost for Stormers ahead of Sharks URC derby

Fit-again Seabelo Senatla is expected to make his return for the Stormers in Saturday's URC derby against the Sharks in Durban.

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Injuries forced the Stormers to pick Cornel Smit, a regular centre, at left wing during last weekend's 35-5 defeat to Ulster in Belfast.

Regular wingers Angelo Davids and Leolin Zas were unavailable, while 19-year-old Suleiman Hartzenberg was picked at right wing.

But in a major boost, Stormers coach John Dobson confirmed that they'll be able to call on Senatla's services this week.

The former Blitzboks star had been sidelined since September with a pectoral muscle injury suffered against Connacht in Stellenbosch when Ireland centre Bundee Aki shoulder charged him at a ruck.

The defending champions will also be able to call on a host of senior players who did not make the trip to Ulster. They are Joseph Dweba (hooker), Neethling Fouche (prop), Deon Fourie (loose forward), Hacjivah Dayimani (loose forward), Paul de Wet (scrumhalf), Manie Libbok (flyhalf) and Dan du Plessis (centre).

On the down-side, JJ Kotze (hooker), Evan Roos (No 8) and Jean-Luc du Plessis (flyhalf) are unlikely to be available after picking up injuries against Ulster.

Springboks Marvin Orie (lock), Steven Kitshoff (prop), Frans Malherbe (prop) and Damian WIillemse (utility back) are also not available in line with national resting protocols.

Saturday's clash at Kings Park, which will be only URC match this weekend, kicks off at 14:00.