Gloucester’s number eight, Zach Mercer, is facing an extended absence, with a recovery period spanning “a few months” due to a recent ankle surgery.
Adding to their injury concerns, flanker Ruan Ackermann is still sidelined, grappling with a persistent “nerve issue,” while prop Val Rapava-Ruskin is unavailable due to an undiagnosed injury.
The upcoming fixture for Gloucester sees them pitted against Bath in an eagerly awaited West Country derby, taking place at their home ground this Friday.
“He got caught in a tackle at the beginning of the Saracens game, there were like three people that fell on him at the same time – it’s one of those injuries and he’s going to be out for a few months,” director of rugby George Skivington told BBC Radio Gloucestershire.
“We could have strapped him up and tried to put him out but that’s not how we do it here and I don’t think that’s the responsible thing, to bring him over here and ask him to limp on and see what happens.
“We’ve taken the action of getting it right and making sure that when he comes back he’ll be 100%.”
Rugby Quiz:
The 30 best rugby players in the world have been ranked
#30. Dan Sheehan (Ireland)
A rising Irish hooker known for his powerful scrummaging and dynamic play in open field. Sheehan’s agility and tackling prowess make him a vital asset in set pieces and loose play alike, hinting at a promising future in international rugby
#29. Owen Farrell (England)
England’s steadfast captain and fly-half, Farrell’s tactical brilliance and accurate kicking guide his team’s gameplay. Renowned for his leadership, his defensive grit and ability to control the game’s pace make him a linchpin in England’s rugby strategy.
Wales Online wrote: “The 31-year-old has been in the spotlight for all the wrong reasons recently but is a player you’d rather play with than against. Farrell is a natural leader of men, and will play a crucial role if England are to drag themselves out of the rut they find themselves in.”
#28. Thibaud Flament (France)
A versatile lock for France, Flament’s towering presence in the lineout and ferocious work rate define his style. With his strong carrying and breakdown skills, he is a force to be reckoned with in both set-piece dominance and open-field encounters.
#27. Shannon Frizell (New Zealand)
Frizzell’s imposing physique and aggressive ball-carrying mark him as a formidable All Black flanker. His offloading ability, coupled with his defensive prowess, cements his position as a player who consistently makes his presence felt on the field.
#26. Steven Kitshoff (South Africa)
An anchor of the Springboks’ scrum, Kitshoff’s experience and technical expertise are unmatched. His exceptional work rate and relentless tackling contribute to his reputation as a reliable front-row stalwart, key to South Africa’s forward dominance.
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