Outside centre Ruhan Nel will captain a Stormers side blending experience with youthful flair as the franchise prepares to make history against the All Blacks at DHL Stadium on Friday night.
The fixture marks the first-ever meeting between the Stormers and an international side ranked second in the world, kicking off the visiting tourists’ campaign in South Africa.
But there is some history between the touring New Zealand and the Cape side, as people have been reminiscing about the now defunct Western Province side’s shock win over the All Blacks at Newlands 50 years ago.
Nel anchors the midfield alongside Jonathan Roche, framing an exciting new half-back combination where 20-year-old fly-half Yaqeen Ahmed makes his senior Stormers debut alongside scrumhalf Imad Khan.
Out wide, Springbok fullback Warrick Gelant marshals a lethal back three flanked by wingers Seabelo Senatla and Leolin Zas. Experienced halfback Dewaldt Duvenage and utility back Wandisile Simelane provide cover from the bench.
Up front, Springbok hooker André-Hugo Venter is flanked by props Vernon Matongo and Neethling Fouché, with Adré Smith and Connor Evans forming the second-row partnership.
Crucially, head coach John Dobson has reunited the back-row trio of Evan Roos, Hacjivah Dayimani and veteran Deon Fourie — the exact combination that started the Stormers’ 2022 United Rugby Championship final victory over the Bulls at the very same venue.
“This is history in the making as the Stormers take on New Zealand for the first time, and our team is determined to make it one to remember for our fans,” said Dobson.
“For a club side to take on an international team ranked second in the world is a massive opportunity, and one that every player and management member is looking forward to.”
Friday’s historic clash at DHL Stadium kicks off at 7pm.
