Odendaal has struggled with injuries ever since moving into Franklin’s Gardens’ Cinch Stadium in the summer.
The South African center, who came to Saints from Toshiba Brave Lupus Tokyo in Japan, suffered a hamstring
injury during practice after a shoulder issue prevented him from joining the team.
However, he has been working toward his recovery and is getting closer to donning the black, green, and gold
ensemble for the first time.
“It’s closer,” remarked Dowson. “He’s got himself a mixer. He has now completed several weeks of instruction.”
Ollie Sleightholme, who had a hip injury during the team’s victory over Toulon earlier this month, is another player
the Saints are hoping to see back in action.
“Hopefully Ollie Sleightholme pulls through this week with his hip pointer so there’s hope for Ollie,” Dowson stated.
However, longer stints on the sidelines are in store for Tom Seabrook (ankle) and George Hendy (knee), who were
both hurt during the victory over Toulon.
“They’re both on crutches so they’re going to be a long period of time out,” Dowson stated. “They will be out for an
extended period of time.”
Despite losing against Glasgow Warriors due to a neck injury, Dowson stated, “Alex Waller is good so he’ll be there
or thereabouts.”
Another player that has been sidelined is Lewis Ludlam, who suffered a high ankle sprain during the victory over
Harlequins.
“Lewis Ludlam is going through the return to fitness so he’s a little way off just yet,” Dowson stated. “But he’s
working hard at it because he’s desperate to get back.”
With a knee injury, James Ramm is out for the foreseeable future, while Tom James will serve the second game of
his three-game suspension this weekend.
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