Loosehead prop Oliver Kebble is likely to start for the Stormers in their Super Rugby clash against the Bulls at Loftus Versfeld on Saturday.

According to Sport24 reports, Kebble is expected to take the No 1 jersey from Steven Kitshoff, after the latter injured his knee in the 29-28 win over the Highlanders last Saturday.

With Springbok prop Pat Cilliers also sidelined, coach Allister Coetzee appears to have no other option than to start with Kebble.

Kebble, 21, has played in eight of the Stormers’ 10 matches this year, but all of his appearances came as a substitute. The 35 minutes he played against the Highlanders at the weekend was by far the most time he’s spent on the pitch in a Super Rugby game.

Kebble is a strong ball carrier, but the Stormers scrum struggled this past weekend and starting at Loftus would be a real baptism of fire for the youngster.

Meanwhile, a look at the Stormers “Unfitness Report”:

According to rugby365, Jean De Villiers headlines a horrific list of Stormers injuries, as they count the costs of their one point victory over the Highlanders at the weekend.

Captain De Villiers has been ruled out of the big north-south derby against the Bulls in Pretoria on Saturday, with an AC joint problem that has been plaguing the centre through-out the season.

He will be reassessed next week, but perhaps it is time that the Springbok captain gets a well deserved rest.

Two players have been ruled out for the remainder of the season, with two more in doubt potentially only returning in the latter stages or play-offs.

Scrumhalf Louis Schreuder has fractured his thumb and had to have it operated on – he will be out for three months.

Wing Kobus van Wyk damaged wrist ligaments and could be out for some time.

His injury is similar to Manuel Carizza’s, who was injured in Round Two and remains on the casualty list.

Prop Steven Kitshoff has an MCL injury and it is up to a specialist to confirm exact lay-off, but it is likely will be long term.

More concerns at lock with Jurie van Vuuren, whose shoulder was injured in the match, out for this week and will be sidelined for eight weeks.

furthermore, two-try hero Frans Malherbe who took a knock to the head will be given this week to prove his fitness.

This goes for lock Michael Rhodes as well, he is also carrying a niggle from the weekend.

Some positive news for the desolated Stormers squad is that Prop Pat Cilliers, who has recovered from a knee complaint, and lock Jean Kleyn, ffrom an ankle issue, and they will be up for consideration this week.

However, flyhalf Demetri Catrakilis who broke his nose against the Lions on the Easter weekend requires another week before becoming available for selection.

Kick-off for Saturday’s South African derby is scheduled for 19:10 SA Time.