Stormers scrambling in the wake of Neethling Fouche's serious injury

The Stormers prop stocks are under pressure in the wake of Steven Kitshoff's early retirement, a long-term injury to Frans Malherbe and the swansong of stalwart Brock Harris.

Now, Springbok prop Fouche is nursing what could be a broken arm from the win over Ospreys and will not feature in the Stormers' upcoming three-match United Rugby Championship tour.

This has put pressure on the talent coming through, which includes Sazi Sandi and Zachary Porthen.

Director of Rugby John Dobson recently signed Hencus van Wyk and Ollie Kebble. Now, the former is set for baptism of fire as he's set to be fast-tracked into the matchday squad in the coming weeks. Further complicating matters is the fact that 33-year-old van Wyk played loosehead all season for the Cheetahs.

"It might be a broken arm, that's a big blow for us," the Stormers boss said of Fouche.

"[Van Wyk]  still played for the Cheetahs in the Currie Cup semifinal [on 13 September]. They played him at loosehead the whole season. It is taking a little bit of transition time [to tighthead].

"It has to be accelerated now, because Neethling is definitely not going on tour."

The Stormers face Scarlets in Wales on Friday, then they head to Italy for clashes with Zebre and Benetton. 

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