Elton Jantjies was back in training with the Stormers at the Collegians Rugby Club on Tuesday and looked like a fish in water according to coach Allister Coetzee.
The return of Jantjies – after the death of his father, Thomas, last month – is a big boost to the Cape side.
“We’re happy to have Elton back. He’s happy to be here and looking forward to the next few days of training,” Coetzee told the Stormers website after his team’s training session at a packed Lentegeur on Tuesday afternoon.
“Elton has kept very fit these past few weeks and trained very hard on his own. He slotted in seamlessly this morning and this afternoon – he was like a fish in water.
“He’s had a tough time, everyone knows that, but he’s happy to be (back) with his teammates and his friends again. He’s a quality player, he’s in good nick and we know he’ll do a job if selected.”
Whilst a few players watched training from the sidelines – including Schalk Burger, Jean de Villiers, Juan de Jongh and Gio Aplon – only hookers Scarra Ntubeni (shoulder) and Tiaan Liebenberg (back) and lock Eben Etzebeth (ankle) – none of whom were present at training – are definite non-starters a week and a half ahead of their season-opener.
“Jean and Gio not training… that was precautionary… It’s nothing that will keep them out of the Bulls game. However, Michael Rhodes is still battling with his hamstring and he’s a doubt (for the Bulls match),” admitted Coetzee.
“Schalk is looking positive (from his calf strain). He’s made a big improvement and we’ll know more about him later this week.”
The Stormers players were mobbed by fans who turned out in their droves to watch their heroes go through their paces.
Said Coetzee: “It was great to be here today. I never played at Collegians myself but I played against the club and I know that Fleckie and Schalla played against Collegians during their club days too.
“There’s plenty of tradition and history at this club, but also plenty of support and we’re very appreciative of that support – today and always.”
