Markus Muller is set to make a splash in his Currie Cup debut for the Stormers XXIII as they gear up to challenge the Sharks XV this Saturday at Cape Town Stadium. The 19-year-old centre, recently instrumental in the Junior Springboks' Junior World Championship victory, is a key part of the extensive team overhaul led by coach Tom Dawson-Squibb after their recent defeat to the Boland Cavaliers.
This weekend sees Muller teaming up with Josh Boulle in midfield. Noteworthy too is Danie Kruger, another Junior World Champion, who may also debut in the Currie Cup if he comes off the bench. Hooker Altus Rabie is another newcomer looking for his first Currie Cup minutes.
Suleiman Hartzenberg, a seasoned winger, is returning to the field after recovering from an injury, marking his first game this season. In the flyhalf position, stepping in for the first time this season will be Kyle Smith, while flanker Louw Nel is back after a lengthy injury hiatus.
The team's tight five will see Gary Porter joining forces with the recovered Tom Barnard in the second row. Hencus van Wyk will serve as the starting loosehead prop. The squad's depth is further enhanced with the return of scrumhalf Ezekiel Ngobeni from injury.
"This team is determined to put in a performance that all of us and our fans can be proud of at home this weekend. We have been boosted by the inclusion of some players returning to our squad, and we are really looking forward to seeing how the new combinations go out there."
Stormers XXIII starting lineup:
- Hencus van Wyk
- Vernon Paulo
- Herman Lubbe
- Tom Barnard
- Gary Porter
- Keke Morabe
- Louw Nel
- Wandile Mlaba
- Stefan Ungerer (c)
- Kyle Smith
- Mfundo Ndhlovu
- Josh Boulle
- Markus Muller
- Suleiman Hartzenberg
- Dylan Miller
Substitutes:
- Altus Rabie
- Mhleli Khuzwayo
- Danie Kruger
- Gerbrandt Grobler
- Xola Nyali
- Ezekiel Ngobeni
- Gino Cupido
- Kian Davis
With fresh legs and seasoned players back in action, the Stormers are geared up to redeem themselves in front of their home crowd, turning the page on past performances and setting the stage for what could be a thrilling display of rugby prowess.
