Stormers skipper Steven Kitshoff is set to return for Sunday’s clash with the Cardiff Blues, but Andre-Hugo Venter faces a lengthy spell on the sidelines.

Kitshoff was rested for the Stormers’ nine-try mauling of Zebre on Sunday as part of a Springbok player-management plan. But, Stormers forwards coach Rito Hlungwani has confirmed that Venter has undergone scans on what looked to be a serious ankle injury suffered in the 55-7 win.

The promising hooker had to be helped off the field and was on crutches after the match in Stellenbosch. The Stormers are also likely to be without young prop Sazi Sandi for the Vodacom United Rugby Championship clash with Cardiff at Cape Town Stadium.

“Andre has gone for scans … it looks like [his injury] might be long term,” Hlungwani told media on Tuesday. “Sazi also didn’t train today, and probably he won’t be available for this weekend. Steven is back and up for selection.”

Highlights: Stormers thrash cellar-dwellers in Stellenbosch