Burger gets a break

Stormers flank Schalk Burger will be rested for Saturday's match against the Cheetahs at Newlands.

The Stormers will be looking to avenge their defeat in Bloemfontein earlier this month, but will have to do so without the services of the talismanic Burger.

The combative flank has been heavily involved for the Cape side since returning from Japan and has been given the week off as part of the agreement with Saru regarding the management of players.

Michael Rhodes, who was touted as a possible replacement for Burger, hasn't recovered in time from a hamstring injury and will play no part this weekend.

Coach Allister Coetzee has called Sikhumbuzo Notshe into the squad, with Nizaam Carr likely to be promoted from the bench.

'It was planned a while ago and we will be roping in Notshe from the Vodacom Cup team,' said Coetzee.

'I am mindful of the fact that Duane Vermeulen, Eben Etzebeth, Frans Malherbe and Schalk [once more], are due some rest [in some cases more rest], but we have a plan and it will get clearer for me after this game.

'It’s difficult to say right now in terms of rest, but we want to see where we are first before making arrangements accordingly.'

Meanwhile, captain Duane Vermeulen and centres Damian de Allende (tightness) and Juan de Jongh (minor dead leg) sat out training on Monday, but will be fit to face the Cheetahs this weekend.

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