Rhodes heading home

Michael Rhodes will play no further part in the Stormers tour after suffering a hamstring tear during his team's win over the Waratahs at the weekend.

Rhodes was making his first appearance since recovering from a knee injury suffered against the Lions earlier this season, but was forced to leave the field in the 33rd minute and now faces up to eight weeks on the sidelines.

Rhodes' place in the touring party will be taken by Sikhumbuzo Notshe, who has impressed with his performances in the Vodacom Cup.

'Michael has a grade two/three hamstring tear and will be out of action for at least six weeks,' said Stormers coach Allister Coetzee.

'It's a huge blow to the team and to Mike, who brings a physical edge to our pack.

'Thankfully, however, we have a strong squad system at the Stormers and you could see that in the performance of Siya Kolisi on Saturday – he put his body on the line for the team, as did everyone around him.

'Notshe joined us on tour as a replacement last year [too], so this isn't new to him. He's been in great form for our unbeaten Vodacom Cup team, having also made giant strides during the 2014 Currie Cup.'

Schalk Burger (AC Joint) and Demetri Catrakilis (mild concussion) suffered knocks on the weekend, but will be considered for selection in their last match on tour against the Force.

Photo: Ryan Wilkisky/BackpagePix