Scarra Ntubeni has been ruled out for eight weeks after fracturing a metatarsal in his foot during the Stormers defeat to the Bulls at Loftus.
The hooker joins a lengthening list of injury lay-offs, most of which come from the tight five. Prop Brok Harris is also in doubt for this weekend's clash with the Force after suffering a cut eye-lid against the Bulls. There is hope though that front-rankers Oli Kebble and Frans Malherbe (both concussion) will be available for selection this week.
Flyhalf Demetri Catrakilis may also be considered for a recall after recovering from the broken nose he sustained against the Lions last month.
Photo: Luke Walker/Getty Images