The Stormers boss Allister Coetzee has revealed that he does not want to "risk" flanker Schalk Burger's fitness at this stage of the season.
It was expected that he would be fit to face the Bulls in their first match of the Super Rugby season on Friday, but Coetzee has confirmed the omission.
"At this stage of the season I don't want to risk it," the coach told reporters.
Burger was injured within the first 20 minutes of their opening Super Rugby game last season.