Published by on

Siya Kolisi is back in the Stormers starting team for the first time since 2021, adding a major dose of experience to a side that has continued to blood promising young players, Cape {town} Etc reports.

Kolisi linked up with the Stormers in Galway last week and watched their 29-15 win over Connacht from the sidelines. Now, he gets his chance to make his long-awaited return against Edinburgh.

He will not wear the captain’s armband, however. Ruhan Nel retains the role after continuing to impress in the leadership position and will once again lead the team.

Kolisi’s return comes at a time when the Stormers are without most of their current Springboks, leaving the former World Cup-winning captain as a particularly significant addition to the matchday squad.

The Stormers have also handed Yaqeen Ahmed his first URC start at flyhalf after the Junior Springbok made an encouraging appearance off the bench in Galway.

Ahmed caught the eye with his willingness to take on defenders and inject more threat into the Stormers’ attack. He even crossed the line for a try, although it was later ruled out.

The young flyhalf has already worn the Stormers No 10 jersey during their tour match against the All Blacks on 7 August, but Edinburgh will provide his first start in the URC.

He replaces Jurie Matthee, while Kolisi comes into the back row at No 6, with Louw Nel shifting across to No 7.

There is also an opportunity for Wandile Mlaba, who comes onto the bench after Riley Norton moves back into the second row.

Ben-Jason Dixon had been expected to potentially return after travelling with the squad to Galway, but he is not included in the matchday 23 as he continues his concussion return-to-play process.

Ntuthuko Mchunu also returns to the starting XV, with Vernon Matongo moving to the replacements.

Stefan Ungerer comes back into the side at scrumhalf, while Andre Warner drops to the bench.

The Stormers have opted for a six-two split on the replacements bench, including four locks across the matchday squad.

The challenge in Edinburgh is a significant one. The Stormers have never beaten Edinburgh on their 4G home surface, although they did leave with a draw during their first-ever URC tour.

Edinburgh will also arrive with confidence after beating Ulster away last week.

DHL Stormers team: Warrick Gelant, Seabelo Senatla, Ruhan Nel (captain), Jonathan Roche, Leolin Zas, Yaqeen Ahmed, Stefan Ungerer, Hacjivah Dayimani, Louw Nel, Siya Kolisi, JD Schickerling, Riley Norton, Neethling Fouche, Andre-Hugo Venter, Ntuthuko Mchunu.

Replacements: Vernon Paulo, Vernon Matongo, Sazi Sandi, Connor Evans, Adre Smith, Wandile Mlaba, Andre Warner, Wandisile Simelane.

Be the first to know – Join our WhatsApp Channel for content worth tapping into! Click here to join!

Also read:

Siya Kolisi confirms return to Stormers after Sharks stint

Picture: Gallo Images

Article written by