The Stormers XXIII have called on some seasoned campaigners as they look to prove a point against the Bulls U23 at Cape Town Stadium on Saturday.
The clash, which kicks off at 16:00 after the Vodacom URC fixture between the Stormers and Connacht, marks the team’s first home game of the SA Rugby U23 Cup campaign following two tough outings on the road.
Injuries have forced a reshuffle in the backline, but there is still plenty of excitement in the hosts’ line-up. Suleiman Hartzenberg returns to add spark in a dangerous back three alongside JC Mars and Luke Burger, while Jonathan Roche slots into midfield with captain Josh Boulle.
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At halfback, Dominic Malgas and Imad Khan will steer the side, with a loose trio of Keke Morabe, Divan Fuller and Alutha Wesi tasked with bringing energy and physicality.
Up front, Sazi Sandi anchors the scrum alongside Luca Bakkes and Mhleli Khuzwayo, with Connor Evans and Adam de Waal combining in the second row.
High Performance Manager Hanyani Shimange believes the return to Cape Town could prove crucial.
“It is always tough to travel to places like Durban and Pretoria, so hopefully this team will be able to make home advantage count on the weekend,” he said.
“We have been hit by a few injuries this week, but there are some talented players in the mix and a good blend of hungry young players and some experienced heads who will be able to keep the team focused.
“After the defeat last week, it is important to bounce back quickly, and we are excited to see what this team has to offer.”
With fresh combinations and home support behind them, the Stormers XXIII will be eager to make a statement against their traditional rivals.
Stormers XXIII – 15 Luke Burger, 14 Suleiman Hartzenberg, 13 Josh Boulle (c), 12 Jonathan Roche, 11 JC Mars, 10 Dominic Malgas, 9 Imad Khan, 8 Keke Morabe, 7 Divan Fuller, 6 Alutha Wesi, 5 Connor Evans, 4 Adam de Waal, 3 Sazi Sandi, 2 Luca Bakkes, 1 Mhleli Khuzwayo.
Bench: 16 Lukhanyo Vokozela, 17 Hencus van Wyk, 18 Herman Lubbe, 19 Gary Porter, 20 Aidan Norris, 21 Asad Moos, 22 Kyle Smith, 23 Ezekiel Ngobeni.
Photo: Ashley Vlotman/Gallo Images
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