“It is a really bad break which will delay his comeback. I agree with the orthopaedic surgeon who operated on him that Hammel will not see any more rugby in the remainder of the 2011 season,” commented UP-Tuks 1’ Team Doctor, Herman Rossouw.

Du Plessis will be replaced in the No 13 jersey by Donnovan Marais, for whom it will be his first Carlton Cup start of the season. Marais’ fine form in matches for the UP-Tuks Fezelas did not go unnoticed, as was pointed out by UP-Tuks 1 Head Coach, Nollis Marais.

“Donnovan is not a newcomer to UP-Tuks rugby as has already been tested at Varsity Cup level in 2010. I am very impressed with the form he has shown so far this season and have little doubt that he will be up to anything coming his way against Silver Valke on Saturday."

Marais will also have to make forced changes at right wing and hooker as both Dirk Dippenaar (ankle) and Chris Crous (shoulder) were also injured against Centurion and will not be eligible for selection.