Stormers scare as two key players collide in training

There was a huge scare at the Stormers training session on Wednesday afternoon following a heavy collision between winger Leolin Zas and utility back Damian Willemse.

While practising on wet turf, Willemse slipped while collecting a high ball before colliding with Zas at speed. Both players received lengthy treatment from Stormers medical staff before eventually leaving the field.

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Stormers director of rugby John Dobson admitted the incident immediately looked serious.

“I hate watching practice on a Wednesday. I try not to watch,” Dobson told CapeTalk.

“And then when I looked up, I just saw Zas and Damian hit each other at 100 km/h an hour, and then two bodies lying there for long minutes.”

Dobson said the reaction of the medical staff immediately raised alarm bells.

“You always watch the physio’s reaction,” he added. “And then she’s sort of going to call the doctor, and then the doctor starts waddling across.”

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Willemse reportedly injured his knee, while Zas is believed to have suffered a suspected haematoma.

“I’m waiting for the scans,” Dobson said.

“That would be catastrophic if those two are both out.”

It will be a big blow to the Stormers should either player miss Saturday’s United Rugby Championship quarter-final clash against Cardiff Rugby at Cape Town Stadium.

Although the Stormers have welcomed back Seabelo Senatla from injury, Dobson may have to reshuffle his backline should Willemse or Zas fail to recover in time.

Wandisile Simelane and Suleiman Hartzenberg are among the options who could come into contention if changes are required.

Kick-off for Saturday’s clash is at 15:30.