Stormers suffer Senatla blow in opening victory

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Seabelo Senatla is set to miss a chunk of the season after suffering an injury while being cleaned out dangerously by Bundee Aki as the DHL Stormers opened their title defence with a win.

The incident took place in the second half of the Stormers’ 38-15 Vodacom United Rugby Championship win over Irish side Connacht in Stellenbosch.

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The Stormers were leading 16-8 when Connacht were on the attack and replacement back Aki sent Senatla flying from a ruck. Connacht went on to score a try, but it was chalked off after a TMO review showed that Aki’s shoulder collided with Senatla’s head, resulting in the Irish international being red-carded.

SARugbymag.co.za understands that Senatla could be out for anywhere between four and six months, with further clarity expected from the Stormers on Monday.

Speaking just after Saturday’s match, head coach John Dobson shared his concern over the wing’s injury.

“It’s done a serious injury to Senatla,” said Dobson. “I feel a bit sorry for Aki, because I know what he’s trying to do. It’s tough, but we can’t have Senatla out for the season.”

The Stormers are still expected to be without  Leolin Zas – still recovering from the ankle injury suffered during last season’s semi-final win against Ulster – for Saturday’s clash with Edinburgh at Cape Town Stadium.

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Photo: Ryan Wilkisky/BackpagePix

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Dylan Jack