Powerful forward Evan Roos could be one of the returning players for the Stormers on Sunday when they face the Dragons in a crucial URC clash in Cape Town.
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They have moved into second place on the United Rugby Championship (URC) table, and it is now up to the Stormers’ players to build on that momentum with six crucial round-robin matches remaining this season.
With the Dragons heading to Cape Town this Sunday, the home team knows it is vital to maintain the winning run they regained following a 32–19 victory over the Bulls at Loftus last weekend.
It was a superb victory, but attention has already shifted to the visiting Welsh side, as the Stormers are well aware they will bring a fierce challenge at DHL Stadium (3pm kick-off).
Given the Dragons’ position on the URC table, this could present an opportunity for the Stormers to rotate combinations and reintroduce returning players into the line-up following injuries.
One or two positional changes are expected for this clash.
Eighthman Evan Roos, winger Seabelo Senatla and centre Dan du Plessis returned to training for the Cape side, and all are available for selection. With utility back Suleiman Hartzenberg and centre Jonathan Roche turning out for the Stormers XXIII in a warm-up match against the Seattle Seawolves in a friendly on Sunday afternoon (5pm), it could open the door for Senatla’s return.
Du Plessis could also come back into the mix as rookie Jonathan Roche joined the junior side, with Willemse an option at inside centre, fullback or from the bench as his minutes are carefully managed. The return of Roos could add physicality against the hard-hitting Welsh outfit, although Marcell Theunissen was outstanding against the Bulls.
Director of rugby John Dobson will name his team on Thursday.
Speaking about the Dragons, Willemse described them as an “all-core” team.
“They are one of the best defensive sides in the competition this season,” he said.
“We must ensure our plans are well prepared for them. They will come looking to cause an upset; however, we are very excited to be playing at home in front of our supporters. We are looking forward to an exciting game on Sunday.”
One player Willemse combined well with on Saturday was returning captain and inside centre Ruhan Nel. The duo controlled the midfield against a strong Bulls backline, and their partnership will be a key asset for the Cape side going forward.
Another player who marked his return with strong performances is loose forward Hacjivah Dayimani. Willemse created the crucial bonus point try of the match with a well-weighted kick into space for Dayimani to chase and score, with no Bulls defenders in sight.
“It is great to have a character like Hacjivah back. He brings so much energy and spirit. He is a lively personality, and his style of play suits the Stormers. He needed that stint in Paris, but he has always been one of us.
“Hacjivah is like a joker for us — he can appear anywhere, whether in the wider channels or through the middle. You know that when an opportunity is created, or someone breaks through, he will be on your shoulder. He also scrambles well in defence when we need him.
“Ruhan is a great leader and teammate. We have worked together for almost 10 years. The experience he brings, along with the work he puts in behind the scenes, has been immense. He led us exceptionally well this past weekend.
“To come back from a three-and-a-half-month injury lay-off and perform like that is outstanding.”
The team to play the Seawolves consist of some experienced players returning from injury, while plenty of youngsters will get a run-out against the visiting American side.
All eyes will be on loose forward Keke Morabe who will return following a long stint on the sidelines. He is tipped to be a future Stormers star, but injuries has limited his progression at the highest level.
Stormers XXIII: 15 JC Mars, 14 Suleiman Hartzenberg, 13 Josh Boulle, 12 Jonathan Roche, 11 Joel Leotlela, 10 Jurie Matthee, 9 Dewaldt Duvenage, 8 Keke Morabe, 7 Divan Fuller, 6 Louw Nel, 5 Gary Porter, 4 Connor Evans, 3 Herman Lubbe, 2 Lukhanyo Vokozela, 1 Oli Kebble; Replacements: 16 Luca Bakkes, 17 Olly Reid, 18 Hencus van Wyk, 19 Vernon Paulo, 20 Tom Barnard, 21 Reuben Kruger, 22 Torren February, 23 Adeeb Borraine, 24 Jean-Luc du Plessis, 25 Luke Burger, 26 Bruce Sherwood, 27 Mfundo Ndhlovu