The unbeaten and table-topping Stormers will face the Sharks without one of their key players, flank Pieter Louw.

Coach Allister Coetzee confirmed on Sunday that Louw will miss the trip to Durban, after he sustained what appears to be a serious knee injury in the 51-16 win over the Western Force at the weekend.

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However, the exact extent of the injury or the length of his lay-off is yet to be confirmed.

“Pieter had a scan and we are waiting for the results,” Coetzee said on Sunday.

Nick Koster did well as his replacement and the Stormers will be emboldened by the thought that regular captain Schalk Burger is set to return from injury for the big derby clash with the Sharks – who will be travelling back from London after the 28-44 loss they suffered at the hands of the Crusaders on Sunday.

There was other good news as well.

Lock Rynhardt Elstadt has recovered from the ankle injury that forced him to sit out the win over the Force and he will be available for selection against the Sharks.

The Stormers said they will remain focussed and build on their last performance.

“Mentally this side is in a good space,” said Coetzee, about his team’s unbeaten run.

“There is a fine line between arrogance and confidence.

“This side is growing in confidence, but certainly will always respect the opposition.

“We will always stay in the now and look to the next battle and as to how we can keep improving and doing the small things better.

“Next week it’s another huge challenge in Durban.

“The competition is still young and we still have a long way to go.”