The Stormers will welcome back captain and chief defensive organiser Ruhan Nel on Saturday for their United Rugby Championship (URC) clash against Ulster in Cape Town. Nel has been missing for two matches, one in the Champions Cup and one in the URC, but will return to the midfield for the final clash before the November international break. His return is expected to bring defensive steel back to the Stormers' midfield.
In Nel's absence, the Cape side claimed thrilling wins over Bristol Bears and Scarlets on consecutive weekends. However, their defence came under heavy scrutiny following the two clashes. The team scrambled brilliantly to limit Bristol to just two tries, but Scarlets' attack found space on the outside of the defence countless times, racking up six five-pointers. Three of those tries were scored by outside centre Joe Robberts, who carved up the midfield and found space out wide.
Nel will link up with Springbok hopeful Markus Muller, who was included in the starting lineup on Friday afternoon following an injury to Jonathan Roche. The Stormers' coach, John Dobson, has challenged the team's young Bok hopefuls to put Ulster first as the Cape side look to preserve their unbeaten home record. Dobson is keen to get the team back on track and make a strong statement against Ulster.
Nel has warned that Ulster will be a tough nut to crack, despite currently sitting 13th on the URC log without a win. He believes the team they have brought over will strengthen their side, with experienced players like James Hume at 13 and John Cooney at scrumhalf bringing plenty of leadership to the field. Nel also noted that Ulster have had two consecutive draws and almost beat the Bulls at Loftus, making them a dangerous prospect.
The Stormers' squad has been boosted by the return of Bongi Mbonambi, who may be off the pace but is expected to add crucial second-half bite off the replacements bench. Mbonambi's return will ease the team's hooker shortage and boost his international prospects. The team has made several changes to their lineup, with new signing Mbonambi set to make his debut.
Nel also highlighted the significance of the match, recalling that the Stormers drew in Belfast last year towards the end of the season. He believes the team knows exactly what's waiting for them on Saturday and will need to be at their best to secure a win. The Stormers will be looking to make a strong statement against Ulster and maintain their unbeaten home record.
The match against Ulster is a significant one for the Stormers, who are looking to balance their URC ambitions with Springbok hopes. With Springbok debuts potentially on the horizon, the team's young players will be eager to make a strong impression. The Stormers will need to be focused and determined to secure a win against a motivated Ulster side.
Key points
- Ruhan Nel returns to Stormers' starting lineup to lead team's defence against Ulster.
- Stormers look to tighten leaky defence against Ulster.
- Ulster will be highly motivated to cause an upset in their final tour match.
