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2w ago

Stormers Host Sharks as URC Leaders Address Defensive Lapses in Cape Town

The Sharks arrive rejuvenated under JP Pietersen, intent on winning the forward battle to break their URC hoodoo in Cape Town.

Ashley Vlotman/Gallo Images
CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA - DECEMBER 30: Adre Smith during the United Rugby Championship match between DHL Stormers and Hollywoodbets Sharks at DHL Stadium on December 30, 2023 in Cape Town, South Africa. (Photo by Cole Cruickshank/Gallo Images)
CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA - JANUARY 03: Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu of DHL Stormers celebrates winning during the United Rugby Championship match between DHL Stormers and Vodacom Bulls at DHL Stadium on January 03, 2026 in Cape Town, South Africa. (Photo by Grant Pitcher/Gallo Images)
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Overview

  • Saturday’s derby at Cape Town Stadium pits unbeaten, table‑topping Stormers against a Sharks side sitting 14th after improved recent form.
  • Stormers defence coach Norman Laker says midfield “collapses” have been reviewed and fixed, with key internationals Salmaan Moerat, Damian Willemse, Cobus Reinach and Warrick Gelant expected back.
  • The Sharks carry belief from an eight‑try 50‑12 win over a rotated Clermont, though they still missed the Champions Cup last 16 and drop into a Challenge Cup tie at Connacht in April.
  • Hooker Bongi Mbonambi highlights a front‑row and maul contest as decisive, with the Sharks focused on detailed set‑piece prep to blunt one of the Stormers’ main weapons.
  • History favors the hosts: the Sharks are winless in four URC visits to Cape Town Stadium, all tight contests, while the Stormers lead the URC with 36 points in a compressed top six.