Elstadt gets the bad news

Stormers flank Rynhardt Elstadt has officially been ruled out of action for at least four months - one of several players that will miss the trip to Johannesburg for an encounter with the on Saturday.

The loose forward suffered a leg fracture and further damage to his ankle in the win over the Blues at the weekend.

Elstadt left the field in the 37th minute, after falling awkwardly.

His injury - officially described as a maisonneuve fracture - will see him sidelined for at least four months.

The good news for the Stormers is that veteran Springbok loose forward Schalk Burger is due back from Japan next week (March 3).

His club is set to play their final knockout match this coming weekend.

He could be available to face the Sharks (on March 7), but will definitely be available the following week (v Chiefs - March 14).

Prop Frans Malherbe will be considered for selection this week, after his recovery from a long-term ankle/leg injury, which is actually similar to Elstadt's injury.

Bok lock Eben Etzebeth (chest) is looking good and training well, but he is still not 100 percent fit and will, thus, not be risked this week.

Jean Kleyn (hamstring) is not available this week either, after dropping out of the selection equation late last week.

Fellow second row forward Manuel Carizza will have another check-up later this week to see if he is ready for a return to action from a shoulder injury, which he suffered during pre-season action.

Wing Kobus van Wyk (calf muscle) is not ready for selection as yet, after also picking up an injury during his team's pre-season programme.

Centre/fullback Jaco Taute (knee) is on track to make his return against the Sharks (March 7).

If not for that match, he should be available for the following week against the Chiefs.