Stormers reinforced by key returns ahead of crucial URC home fixtures

By SABC Sport
15th April 2025

The Stormers will welcome the return of several key players as they prepare for a vital four-match home run in the United Rugby Championship (URC), beginning with a Round 15 encounter against Connacht in Cape Town on Saturday.

Following their clash with the Irish side, the Stormers will remain at home for consecutive fixtures against Benetton, Dragons, and Cardiff, all to be held on successive Saturdays at Cape Town Stadium.

Currently positioned 10th on the URC table, the Stormers trail the three teams immediately above them - Benetton, Edinburgh, and Cardiff - by a single point. Munster and Ulster, in fifth and sixth place respectively, are also within close reach, highlighting the significance of the upcoming matches in shaping playoff prospects.

The squad has been bolstered by the return of Springbok and Stormers captain Salmaan Moerat, who is back in full training following a foot strain sustained during last month's URC tour. The 27-year-old lock, capped 10 times by South Africa, missed the latter part of the tour, which featured a win over the Scarlets and a defeat to Ulster.

Stormers defence coach Norman Laker confirmed that Moerat has resumed full training and is available for selection this weekend.

Joining him on the comeback trail is experienced second row JD Schickerling, who has recovered from a shoulder injury that has kept him sidelined since late January. Both players are expected to provide a significant boost to the Cape side's line-out and physicality in the tight exchanges.

There is also a possibility that fullback Warrick Gelant could return to action, pending assessment of a knee strain. However, playmaker Manie Libbok remains unavailable as he continues to recover from a knee injury sustained on January 25 during the Stormers' 12-36 loss to Leinster. Additionally, winger Seabelo Senatla is a doubt for Saturday's match due to illness.

Midfield veteran Ruhan Nel has been ruled out for the remainder of the season after sustaining a shoulder injury.

With the playoff race intensifying, the return of key personnel may prove decisive as the Stormers look to climb the table and secure a place in the knockout stages.