The Stormers are set to welcome back hooker André-Hugo Venter for their United Rugby Championship match against the Sharks on Saturday. Director of Rugby John Dobson emphasized that fixing the team's malfunctioning lineout is a key priority. The Stormers lost 11 lineouts in their previous match against Edinburgh, which Dobson attributed to a major area for improvement. Venter's return is expected to bolster the team's lineout performance.
Dobson acknowledged that the Sharks, featuring Springbok veteran Eben Etzebeth, are one of last season's premier contesting outfits. Etzebeth will compete for the ball at the front of the lineout, posing a significant challenge for the Stormers. Dobson stressed that the team must be aware of the Sharks' tactics and adapt their strategy accordingly. The Stormers struggled with their lineout in a home game against the Sharks last season, which hindered their ability to build momentum.
The scrum battle between the Stormers and Sharks is expected to be intense, with Ox Nché leading the Sharks' scrummaging unit. The Stormers have turned to returning Springbok Wilco Louw at tighthead, backed up by Neethling Fouché off the bench. Dobson highlighted the importance of the scrum, stating that it will be a pure test of power and a key factor in determining the outcome of the match.
Dobson pointed to Leinster's recent clash against the Sharks as evidence of the scrum's pivotal role in the game. He emphasized that the Stormers' scrum culture is crucial to their success and that Saturday's match will be a significant test. The Stormers captain, Ruhan Nel, expressed confidence in the team's preparation and mentality, stating that there is a different feeling in the team this season.
The Sharks are also set to field a strong lineup, including several Springboks. Nel revealed that the banter between the Sharks and Stormers players started early in the national camp, highlighting the intensity of the rivalry between the two teams. The Stormers team to face the Sharks includes 11 Springboks, with Siya Kolisi starting at blindside flank alongside openside Paul de Villiers.
Dobson dismissed suggestions that the Stormers are less motivated for the fixture against the Sharks than a clash against traditional rivals, the Bulls. He insisted that the team is fully focused on the match and that it will have the feeling of a classic schoolboy derby. The Stormers are seeking to bounce back from their previous defeat against Edinburgh.
The match is expected to be a closely contested and physical encounter, with both teams targeting a win. The Stormers will be looking to improve their set-piece performance and secure a victory against their South African rivals. Key players to watch include Etzebeth, Nché, and Kolisi, who will all be vying for dominance in the set pieces.
Key points
- The Stormers are seeking to improve their lineout performance, which was a major issue in their previous match against Edinburgh.
- The scrum battle between the Stormers and Sharks is expected to be intense, with both teams featuring strong scrummaging units.
- The match will feature 11 Springboks across the match-day 23, highlighting the intensity of the rivalry between the two teams.
