The Stormers are keeping their cards close to their chest over the potential involvement of their three returning Springboks for Friday night’s Vodacom URC showdown with the Scarlets in Llanelli.
Backs Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu, Damian Willemse and Cobus Reinach will join the squad in Wales on Tuesday, giving the Cape side a timely boost ahead of their first tour fixture.
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Defence coach Norman Laker says the trio’s availability offers valuable options, but was quick to praise the players who have started the season strongly in their absence.
“The guys who have been in the seat have done extremely well,” Laker said. “Guys like Wandi [Simelane], Dan [du Plessis], Ruan [Nel] and Jurie [Mathee] as well have been strong.
“But it also gives us different options. Some guys may be hurt after the first two games, nursing some bumps and bruises, so there is a possibility that we’ll swap around or keep the same team we’ve had over the past two weekends. We’ll make the decision once we get to Wales.”
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The Stormers made it two from two after grinding out a tough win over the Ospreys in Cape Town, but Laker admits there’s still plenty to improve on before facing a well-drilled Scarlets outfit.
“The Scarlets are a good kicking side and a good ball-in-hand side,” Laker noted. “They beat Leinster last season and made the top eight. They’re a very well-coached team and will be difficult to beat.”
Laker said while the team expected a fierce challenge against the Ospreys last week, their own performance was far from perfect – and that sharpening up across key areas will be the focus in Wales.
Photo: Ashley Vlotman/Gallo Images
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