The Stormers XXIII have been boosted by the return of two key players ahead of their final round Currie Cup clash against the Lions at Ellis Park on Friday.
Dylan Miller returns at fullback, while Zimbabwean international Gary Porter bolsters the engine room.
The Stormers are fifth on the standings, with victory essential if they are to remain in contention for a place in the last four.
Miller and Porter’s inclusion is a massive boost for the Cape side who’ve been ravaged by injuries in this year’s campaign.
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It also means opportunities for several emerging players.
Eric Basson makes his first start at No 8 after Divan Fuller was ruled out through injury, while Luke Burger shifts to inside centre in the absence of injured midfielder Cornel Smit.
Junior Boks flank Gert Kemp has also been called up from the Stormers Bolts and could make his Currie Cup debut from the bench.
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Head coach Tom Dawson-Squibb believes his squad is ready for the challenge.
“Our campaign comes down to this match in Joburg, and every person involved is committed to doing whatever they can to get the result we need,” he said.
“It is great to welcome back the likes of Gary and Dylan, and it has been a really positive week on the training pitch, so we are excited about taking on the challenge that awaits us up there.”
STORMERS XXIII – 15 Dylan Miller, 14 Joel Leotlela, 13 Markus Muller, 12 Luke Burger, 11 Mfundo Ndhlovu, 10 Kyle Smith, 9 Ezekiel Ngobeni (c), 8 Eric Basson, 7 Louw Nel, 6 Xola Nyali, 5 Gary Porter, 4 Tom Barnard, 3 Herman Lubbe, 2 Vernon Paulo, 1 Mhleli Khuzwayo.
Bench: 16 Altus Rabe, 17 Hencus van Wyk, 18 Danie Kruger, 19 Luan Botha, 20 Gert Kemp, 21 Tiaan Fourie, 22 Dominic Malgas, 23 Kian Davis.
Photo: Shaun Roy/Gallo Images
