The Stormers will be without a Springbok lock when they kick off their Vodacom URC campaign against Leinster in Cape Town on 26 September.
Salmaan Moerat has been sidelined for six to eight weeks after injuring his meniscus (cartilage in the knee) during a training session.
The 27-year-old confirmed the setback to Netwerk24, saying the timing was unfortunate given his plans to get more game time through Western Province’s Currie Cup campaign before the new URC season.
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The injury also rules Moerat out of the Springboks’ immediate plans, with the lock likely only to be considered again for the end-of-year tour.
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