Stormers’ fringe players ready to shine in Champions Cup clash against Harlequins

The Stormers will head into their Champions Cup clash against Harlequins on Sunday full of confidence, buoyed by their unbeaten start to the season, the hunger of players waiting for their opportunities, and the appointment of a new captain in Damian Willemse.

With several frontline players rested for the trip to London, the match at the Twickenham Stoop (3pm kick-off) presents a valuable chance for fringe players to stake their claim.

As the Cape side continues to build depth across competitions, these selections are about more than rotation — they are about maintaining standards and reinforcing the culture that has underpinned the Stormers’ recent success.

Willemse’s appointment reflects director of rugby John Dobson’s continued effort to expand the team’s leadership group. Regular captains such as Salmaan Moerat, Ruhan Nel, Neethling Fouché and Deon Fourie did not make the trip, creating space for others to step up and take responsibility in a demanding away fixture.

Despite making several changes to the match-day 23, Dobson remains confident that the Stormers can sustain their winning momentum in the Champions Cup. He believes their systems, preparation, belief and competitive edge within the squad will allow the team to perform, regardless of the changes.

Willemse echoed the sentiments of Dobson, expressing confidence in the players selected to take on a strong Harlequins side on their home turf. He emphasised the importance of intensity and collective effort, saying that every player understands what is required.

“We’ve prepared very well and credit must go to the coaches for coming up with the plans for the match,” Willemse said.

“It was important for us to get the combinations and detail right at the start of our training week on Monday following that Bulls game. We wrapped things up on Tuesday in Cape Town and I feel we are in a very good position and mindset.

“There is a lot of new energy and young guys coming through, but it is guys who have been waiting for their opportunities. I’ve also worked closely in the leadership group with Dobbo and Salmaan and the rest of the guys. Yes, I have the captaincy armband, but we will focus on our departments. My job is to lead with my actions.”

Willemse said it is an exciting opportunity to play away from home and, for all of them, it’s a chance to put up their hand and get the job done.

Players like hooker Lukhanyo Vokozela, tighthead Zachary Porthen, lock Connor Evans, flanker Louw Nel, and wing Luke Burger will get a taste of European rugby in the starting XV. Replacements Alex Groves (lock), loose forward Wandile Mlaba and utility back Mfundo Ndhlovu will make their Stormers debut off the bench.

Dobson was pleased for Vokozela, who put in a strong finishing shift against the Bulls last weekend. According to his coach, the young hooker deserves the start.

“I am very happy with where we are with Lukhanyo,” Dobson added.

“There are two parts to his story. He has an amazing journey coming from Khayelitsha and his experiences with gang violence and his education. And then secondly, he’s struggled with off-field issues and injuries after playing junior rugby for us.

“We have him fit and on the field now. He is producing and is a really intense player. Sometimes, we have to tell him to dial it down at training. We just want to give him a run and he has not let us down.”