Captain returns for Kings

Lock Steven Sykes has recovered from a shoulder injury and should be available for the Kings' clash with the Sharks in Durban on Saturday.

CJ Velleman, who broke his thumb during the Blues match two weeks ago, underwent successful surgery and should be available for selection within five weeks, while fellow flanker Chris Cloete, who missed the Cheetahs clash last week with a knee injury, has gone for further scans and is likely to be out for between three and six months following surgery later this week.

Centre Stefan Watermeyer will be evaluated during the week after straining a tendon in his foot against the Blues.

Prop Sti Sithole has been admitted to hospital for an appendectomy and will be out of action for up to six weeks.

Photo: Michael Sheehan/Getty Images