There’s sufficient perspective throughout the DHL Stormers ranks to upset the larger names on the Sharks when the groups conflict in Durban on Saturday, writes MARK KEOHANE.
The coastal rivals collide within the first native derby of the season, whereas the Bulls and Lions are abroad because the Vodacom URC returns after the worldwide break.
Writing for TimesLIVE, Keohane believes the Stormers have the resilience and perception to upset a Springbok-laden Sharks workforce within the spherical 7 conflict at Kings Park.
Regardless of accidents sidelining key gamers comparable to Steven Kitshoff, Frans Malherbe and Damian Willemse, Keohane argues the Stormers’ capability to defy expectations in South African derbies below coach John Dobson makes them harmful opponents.
The Sharks match-day 23 contains 14 present Boks and Scotland worldwide Dylan Richardson, however Keohane notes the Stormers’ unbeaten URC report towards the Durbanites.
KEO: World’s No 1 get the job carried out!
He additionally emphasises the Capetonians’ preparation throughout the Boks’ end-of-year tour as a possible benefit towards the Sharks’ star-studded however just lately reassembled lineup.
“The Stormers can lean on historical past for inspiration when taking part in the star-studded international-fueled Sharks in Durban within the United Rugby Championship,” Keohane writes.
“It’s one hell of a Sharks match 23, however South African derbies are additionally one hell of a leveller on the subject of outcomes.
“The Sharks gamers know solely too effectively how the Stormers raise for the South African derbies and there may be sufficient perspective inside this Stormers group to upset the larger names carrying black on Saturday.
“It must be an exhilarating reminder of what makes the URC such a particular competitors…”
Photograph: @THESTORMERS/Twitter
