Springbok star Jean de Villiers could be back in action far sooner than at first thought after suffering a heavy knock to the head on the opening weekend of the new Super 14.
The Stormers captain left the field on a stretcher early in the second half of his side’s defeat to the Sharks following a collision with fellow Bok Francois Steyn.
However, the Stormers medical staff have allayed fears that the 27-year-old could face a lengthy spell on the sidelines.
"I have spoken to the doctor and he has reassured me that it is nothing serious,” said Stormers manager Frikkie Erasmus.
“We don’t know yet how long he will be out, but he was just taken to hospital as precaution and the tests were also precautionary.
“Jean will be playing again as soon as he feels comfortable.”
The Stormers confirmed that de Villiers did not suffer concussion in the incident, meaning thee is no mandatory rest period for the 33-times capped centre.
De Villiers, who is expected to play a key role for his country when they host the Lions later this year, could return to the Stormers starting line up as early as next week.
The Stormers host the Queensland Reds at Newlands on Friday with de Villiers’ involvement depending on the results of an assessment later this week.
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