Du Plessis is set to energize the squad as the sole change in the backline. Forward positions, however, see a shake-up with three new starters. Mhleli Khuzwayo will be seen handling responsibilities at loosehead prop, while Xola Nyali and Divan Fuller are the fresh additions to the loose trio.
Dawson-Squibb highlighted the importance of building on their solid home performance and maintaining a stable team selection to foster team synergy.
"The support we got last week was phenomenal, and we know that the atmosphere at Athlone Stadium is going to be unreal once again. We have kept as much continuity in selection as possible, and hopefully we can see another step-up in the performance on Sunday."
The Stormers roster for the upcoming game is as follows:
- 1. Mhleli Khuzwayo
- 2. Vernon Paulo
- 3. Herman Lubbe
- 4. Tom Barnard
- 5. Gary Porter
- 6. Xola Nyali
- 7. Louw Nel
- 8. Divan Fuller
- 9. Stefan Ungerer
- 10. Jean-Luc du Plessis (c)
- 11. Mfundo Ndhlovu
- 12. Josh Boulle
- 13. Markus Muller
- 14. Suleiman Hartzenberg
- 15. Dylan Miller
Substitutes:
- 16. Altus Rabe
- 17. Hencus van Wyk
- 18. Danie Kruger
- 19. Gerbrandt Grobler
- 20. Luan Botha
- 21. Ezekiel Ngobeni
- 22. Kyle Smith
- 23. Gino Cupido
This lineup shows Dawson-Squibb's commitment to blending seasoned players with emerging talent, a tactic that might just pay off in this critical home game. As the Stormers prime themselves for another captivating performance, all eyes will be on how this mix of experience and fresh energy translates on the field come Sunday.
