The Stormers are gearing up for an exciting clash as they introduce a mix of seasoned pros and eager newcomers for the upcoming Currie Cup game against the reigning champions, the Griquas, at Cape Town Stadium. Under the guidance of coach Tom Dawson-Squibb and led by flyhalf Jean-Luc du Plessis, the Stormers will blend experience with youthful zeal in what promises to be a thrilling opener.
Du Plessis will be orchestrating the game from the number 10 spot, ably assisted by scrumhalf Stefan Ungerer. They will be essential in navigating the team through this crucial encounter. The lineup also includes six players poised to make their Currie Cup debut: fullback Dylan Miller, winger Mfundo Ndhlovu, lock Tom Barnard, number eight Wandile Mlaba, flanker Xola Nyali, and utility back Dominic Malgas. Adding to the seasoned depth, Scarra Ntubeni, a veteran hooker with one Springbok cap, is expected to bring his robust experience off the bench.
New faces donning the Stormers jersey in the Currie Cup also include hooker Vernon Paulo, prop Hencus van Wyk, and scrumhalf Tiaan Fourie, adding fresh energy to the squad. The backline promises excitement with Gino Cupido and Ndhlovu joining Miller to complete a formidable trio. The forwards are bolstered by the presence of Oli Kebble, alongside Paulo and young tighthead Herman Lubbe, with the line-out duties managed by former Sharks lock Gerbrandt Grobler and Barnard. The loose trio comprises Mlaba, Divan Fuller, and Keke Morabe, providing mobility and strength.
"We are new as a team, which brings with it the chance of some adapting through the game but more importantly, it brings with it massive enthusiasm and competitiveness,"
explained Dawson-Squibb."My message for the last four weeks has been to compete ‘unreasonably’. We want this team to go above and beyond in every area and push ourselves as far as we can, which is what we mean by being unreasonable. What better way to test this than against the defending champions who are high on confidence. This is a big moment as we start a new era, and what better place to do so than DHL Stadium."
The match against the Griquas is not just about starting the season; it's about ending their dominance over the Stormers, who seek to reverse the fortunes of the past eight encounters dominated by the Griquas.
Stormers XXIII Line-up:
- 1. Oli Kebble
- 2. Vernon Paulo
- 3. Herman Lubbe
- 4. Tom Barnard
- 5. Gerbrandt Grobler
- 6. Keke Morabe
- 7. Divan Fuller
- 8. Wandile Mlaba
- 9. Stefan Ungerer
- 10. Jean-Luc du Plessis (c)
- 11. Mfundo Ndhlovu
- 12. Cornel Smit
- 13. Josh Boulle
- 14. Gino Cupido
- 15. Dylan Miller
- 16. Scarra Ntubeni
- 17. Mhleli Khuzwayo
- 18. Hencus van Wyk
- 19. Dylan de Leeuw
- 20. Enos Ndiao
- 21. Xola Nyali
- 22. Tiaan Fourie
- 23. Dominic Malgas
The Stormers are all set to take the field with determination, hoping to make a positive impact right from the kickoff. As the team huddles up under the lights of Cape Town Stadium this Friday, anticipation runs high for what promises to be a season of rejuvenation and robust rugby action.
