A DEGREE in accountancy has helped trialist lock Wilhelm van der Sluys learn Worcester Warriors’ line-out calls, says defence coach Simon Cross.

The 25-year-old has linked up with Warriors this week and partners Andrew Kitchener in the second row for tomorrow’s Anglo-Welsh Cup clash against Wasps at the Ricoh Arena (3pm).

Warriors have brought in 6ft 6ins van der Sluys after injuries to Tevita Cavubati (broken foot), Christian Scotland-Willamson (knee) and Will Spencer (back).

“Wilhelm has been brilliant this week and he’s a very smart guy,” said Cross.

“He’s got a degree in accountancy so he’s good with numbers and percentages and he’s picked up all our line-outs pretty quickly and I am quite excited to see him defend as well.”

Van der Sluys came through Western Province’s youth system and made 25 appearances for the Cape Town-based side.

Alongside a host of future Springboks including Eben Etzebeth, Siya Kolisi and Frans Malherbe, the lock was involved in Western Province’s team who won the under 19s Currie Cup 2010 Championship.

Cross added: “Wilhelm brings a bit of intellect around line-outs and is very mobile and I think he will fit our game nicely.”

Warriors coach Cross is also looking forward to seeing Afeafe Haisila Lokotui, an English-qualified player who is part of the Sixways academy.

Lokotui played age-group rugby for Melbourne Storm in Rugby League and for Melbourne Rebels after switching codes.

He has also represented Tonga under 20s.

Cross said: “Afeafe has been great in training and didn’t get an opportunity last week but he starts at Wasps and people should keep their eyes on him because he’s elusive to say the least."

Cross described Australian scrum-half Michael Dowsett as “a bit of a terrier” who has had a good week of training since his try-scoring debut against Bristol last Friday.

“He’s been good and vocal which Is exactly what we want from a scrum-half,” said Cross.

“He’s a bit of a terrier, which is great, and he did exactly what we needed him to do for 50 minutes against Bristol.

“Michael took his try exceptionally well and tackled well. He’s had another week with us and is an exciting player to watch.”