The Stormers have been given a massive injury boost ahead of their clash with the Cheetahs at Newlands on Saturday.

Having endured a torrent of injuries through much of the season, their woes were eased this week with the news that five players are fit to return to action.

Jean de Villiers, who missed the games against the Bulls and Force due to a recurring shoulder problem, looks set to play some part this weekend. The Springbok and Stormers captain will be hoping to get through some rugby unscathed ahead of South Africa's Test series against Wales.

Returning along with the talismanic captain is vice-captain Schalk Burger, prop Oli Kebble, wing Sailosi Tagicakibau and flyhalf Demetri Catrakilis, who has missed a number of weeks after breaking his nose against the Lions.

It isn't all good news however, as prop Steven Kitshoff has undergone foot surgery and will be out of action for at least four months. The injury is similar to the one suffered by Eben Etzebeth, whose comeback is still some way away.

Eighthman Duane Vermeulen, who captained the team against the Force, is being managed this week and sat out training on Monday, along with lock Ruan Botha and prop Brok Harris. They should be fit for action this weekend though.

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