Mallett addressed the concerns about the Stormers’ brief pre-season on the Talking Boks podcast. He argued that the youthful energy within the team compensates for their lack of preparation.
"I think when you’re young and enthusiastic, three weeks is more than enough time."
Mallett was confident in the team's capabilities, especially highlighting their forward pack despite missing key players due to injuries.
"The Stormers have got a good pack of forwards," Mallett noted, even with the absence of seasoned locks like Ruben van Heerden, Salmaan Moerat, and JD Schickerling. He praised the energy of replacements Adré Smith and Connor Evans, who are expected to step up in their stead.
The strength of the Stormers' front row was another point of emphasis from Mallett, comprising Vernon Matongo, André-Hugo Venter, and Neethling Fouché, which he described as one of the best in the URC.
The dynamic halfback duo of Yaqeen Ahmed and Imad Khan is set to be a central feature of the game, as this marks a significant opportunity for both young players.
"It’s incredibly exciting," said Mallett. "How they play will depend on how that pack performs."
Unlike attempting to mirror New Zealand’s renowned expansive gameplay, Mallett anticipates the Stormers will leverage their set-piece strength.
"The Stormers will play a controlled, set-piece-to-set-piece type of game," he explained. They aim to minimize errors, a crucial strategy given the All Blacks' skill in capitalizing on turnovers and poor kicks.
Mallet acknowledges the formidable challenge posed by the All Blacks but remains optimistic about the Stormers' prospects.
"I’m looking forward to it," he confessed. "I think the Stormers are going to give it their best shot on Friday, and I think the All Blacks will know they’ve been in a proper game."
As the stage is set for this monumental clash in Cape Town, both teams prepare to showcase their best, with the Stormers eager to prove they can hold their ground against the rugby giants from New Zealand.
