Saffa bruiser to battle Stormers in Stellies
10/25/2024 06:31 AM
Vodacom URC title-winning SA loose forward Henco Venter has been named in the Glasgow Warriors lineup to face the DHL Stormers in Stellenbosch on Saturday.
Venter made a strong impact in his maiden campaign with Glasgow in 2023-24, and came off the bench in the Scottish club’s title-winning clash against the Vodacom Bulls at Loftus Versfeld last season.
Meanwhile, lock Richie Gray leads Franco Smith’s team changes, in what will his final game with the club before linking with Japanese outfit Toyota Verblitz.
The Warriors have refreshed their front row, starting Jamie Bhatti and Sam Talakai alongside Johnny Matthews, who scored the decisive bonus-point try against the Sharks in Durban last week.
In the back row, Matt Fagerson, Rory Darge, and Jack Dempsey remain unchanged. Sione Tuipulotu captains from midfield, with Adam Hastings starting at flyhalf alongside George Horne.
TEAM: Stormers get Bok boost, 50 up for Venter
Smith expects a tough battle in front of a vibrant South African crowd at Danie Craven Stadium, acknowledging the Stormers' “international experience and quality” after the former title-winners’ convincing win over Munster in round 5 of the URC.
"The Stormers will provide another stern test for us in Stellenbosch tomorrow,” he told the club’s website. “They look to be hitting top form as they showed in their convincing win over Munster last weekend.
"They will also be able to call upon a wealth of international experience and quality, with Springboks and World Cup winners throughout their squad.
"It promises to be another electric atmosphere in front of a passionate crowd tomorrow, and we look forward to the challenge."
The post Saffa bruiser to battle Stormers in Stellies appeared first on SA Rugby magazine.
