Herewith the DHL Stormers Super Rugby players expected to take part in the 2014 Super Rugby season, as detailed by us PRIOR to the 2014 Super Rugby season.
Some of these players might not actually make the Super Rugby squad, but at this early juncture is most likely to be in the DHL Stormers plans for 2014.
Props:
Name: Steven Kitshoff:
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Kitshoff was a member of the Junior Springboks Under 20 team that won the 2012 IRB Junior World Championship. In addition, Kitshoff was part of the Western Province team that won the 2012 Currie Cup as well as the premier loosehead prop for the Stormers in Super Rugby and Currie Cup in 2013 .
Kitshoff attended Hendrik Louw Primary School and Paul Roos Gymnasium.
Kitshoff came onto the rugby scene as a very young talent. 2013 Was however not his best season, as he seemed to fade away towards the end of the season.
Kitshoff is still young and a good season in 2014 could see him cause some selection debates for the Springboks. Kitshoff and Brok Harris are the only recognized looseheads in the squad and he can use this to his advantage should he remain injury free for the whole season and regains the form he displayed before the 2013 season.
Name: Jozua Francois “Frans” Malherbe:
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Malherbe made both his senior Western Province and Stormers debuts in 2011, however it was the following year when he fully cemented his place in both sides. He played in every Stormers match during the 2012 Super Rugby season and only missed one match in Western Province’s successful 2012 Currie Cup Premier Division campaign when he provided injury cover for South Africa squad on their tour of Australasia. He was a starter as Province upset the Natal Sharks 25-18 in Durban to become a Currie Cup winner at the age of 21.
2013 Saw his reputation grow and he retained his position as the Stormers first-choice tighthead ahead of the more experienced Patric Cilliers who had joined the franchise from the Lions. He made 11 appearances during the 2013 Super Rugby season before an injury ended his campaign and forced him to miss the majority of the 2013 Currie Cup season. He made his comeback towards the back end of the campaign making 4 appearances from the bench and helping Province reach their second successive Currie Cup final.
Malherbe had been involved in several South Africa squads since the appointment of Heyneke Meyer as head coach in 2012 without making any appearances. An injury to Jannie du Plessis meant he finally made his Test debut on 9 November 2013 against Wales in Cardiff. He aquitted himself well despite facing the hugely experienced Gethin Jenkins on the other side of the scrum. He retained his place for the following week’s match against Scotland in Edinburgh, however an injury just before halftime saw him withdrawn and his tour ended prematurely. To date he has 2 Test caps to his name.
He has the chance in 2014 to cement his place as the regular tighthead for the Springboks, should he stay injury free.
Name: Patrick Cilliers:
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Patric Michael Cilliers, born 3 March 1987 in Pietermaritzburg, joined the Stormers in 2013 for the Super Rugby competition and also played internationally for South Africa as a prop.
Cilliers began his professional career with the Sharks, but his time with the team was limited by knee injuries. He transferred with fellow Shark Michael Rhodes to the Lions at the end of the 2010 Currie Cup season. Cilliers was selected in the starting line-up for the Currie Cup final against the Sharks and scored a try in the memorable 42-16 victory.
He previously played for the Lions in the Super Rugby and the Golden Lions in the Currie Cup competition.
He made his debut for the Springboks on 18 August 2012 against Argentina.
Cilliers has been around the block with lots of experience and will most likely try to revive his chances of Springbok honours in 2014, with some solid performances. He is however competing for game time with Frans Malherbe at tighthead who is a current Springbok tighthead.
If Cilliers is given some game time he will most likely try to impress and get back into the regular starting 15.
Name: Juan “Brok” Harris:
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He matriculated from Hoërskool Bastion in Krugersdorp, after which he attended Potchefstroom University. He plays as a loosehead prop for the Stormers in Super Rugby and Western Province in the Currie Cup.
Harris has been with the Stormers for quite some time. He is currently the most capped of all the props at the Stormers. He has to compete with Steven Kitshoff for the loosehead berth.
He is always willing and tries very hard to get into the game quickly.
Starters:
The Stormers will start with Steven Kitshoff at loosehead and with Frans malherbe at tighthead, but both Brok Harris and Patrick Cilliers will see regular game time off the bench. Who the 5th and next props are to step up to the plate will be revealed as the season unfolds, after Chris Heiberg and Deon Carstens have moved on.
Hookers:
Name: Christiaan Rudolph “Tiaan” Liebenberg:
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Tiaan Liebenberg brings a lot of value to the Stormers side. He likes the physical confrontations and also likes to get his team fired up on top of that.
He has proven that he has the skills when it comes to scrum time and lineout time.
He will most likely be the preferred starting hooker but has a lot of talent breathing down his neck.
His playing career is as follows:
- 2002 – Griquas U/21, Natal SA “A” – SA Cup, Natal U/21
- 2003 – Griquas Vodacom Shield, Griquas Absa Currie Cup Qualifying Rounds, Griquas ABSA Currie Cup – Premier Division, Griquas, ABSA Reserve Division A
- 2004 – Griquas ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division, Griquas Vodacom Shield
- 2005 – Wildeklawer Griquas Vodacom Cup, Wildeklawer Griquas ABSA Currie Cup Qualifying Round, Wildeklawer Griquas ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division
- 2006 – Cheetahs Vodacom Super 14, WP ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division
- 2007 – Stormers Vodacom Super 14, WP ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division, South Africa XV Vodacom Outgoing Tour
- 2008 – Stormers Vodacom Super 14
- 2009 – WP MTN test, Stormers Vodacom Super 14, WP British & Irish Lions Tour, Emerging Boks British & Irish Lions Tour, WP ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division
- 2010 – Stormers Vodacom Super 14, WP Absa Currie Cup Compulsory Friendlies, WP ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division
- 2011 – DHL WP Vodacom Cup, DHL Stormers Vodacom Super Rugby, DHL WP ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division
- 2012 – DHL Stormers Vodacom Super Rugby, DHL WP ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division, South Africa The Castle Rugby Championship
- 2013 – Stormers Vodacom Super Rugby, DHL WP Absa Currie Cup Premier Division
Name: Siyabonga “Scarra” Ntubeni:
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Scarra Ntubeni has had a rapid rise in 2013 and has become quite a crowd favourite at the Stormers. For his size he delivers quite a big punch and is not afraid to punch way above his weight.
He already has 11 Super Rugby caps and is no stranger to the big stage. It will be good to see him get some starting game time to prove himself.
Most people would say that he will be the preferred choice as replacement hooker on the bench ahead of Deon Fourie, who has been playing a lot of rugby on the side of the scrum at number 6 (openside flank).
His playing career is as follows:
- 2007 – Border U16 Coca-Cola Grant Khomo Week
- 2008 – Lions U18 Academy Week
- 2009 – Lions U18 Coca-Cola Craven Week, SA Schools U18
- 2010 – Western Province ABSA Under 19 Competition
- 2011 – DHL WP Vodacom Cup, UCT Varsity Cup, DHL Stormers Vodacom Super Rugby, DHL WP Absa Currie Cup Compulsory friendlies, DHL WP ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division, WP ABSA Under 21 Competition
- 2012 – DHL Stormers Vodacom Super Rugby, DHL WP Vodacom Cup, DHL WP ABSA Under 21 Competition, DHL WP ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division
- 2013 – DHL WP Vodacom Cup, Stormers Vodacom Super Rugby, DHL WP Absa Currie Cup Premier Division, South Africa Castle Lager Outgoing Tour
Name: Deon Andre Fourie:
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Deon Fourie has become the recognized fetcher at the Stormers. This is why his inclusion as a hooker has come as quite a surprise. Most would feel that Fourie should rather be kept at number 6 (openside flank) where he has proven himself throughout this season.
Fourie brings a lot of value into the starting side. The question we ask in his case is whether he would bring more value as a hooker or as an openside flanker? Is he going to be the best choice at number 2 (hooker) or should he rather be played at openside flank where he has made a mark in the Stormers team.
His playing career is as follows:
- 2004 – Blue Bulls Limpopo U18 Coca-Cola Craven Week
- 2005 – South Africa IRB U19 World Championships, WP ABSA Under 21 Competition, WP Under 19
- 2006 – WP ABSA Under 21 Competition, WP Vodacom Cup, WP ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division
- 2007 – WP Vodacom Cup, South Africa IRB Sevens Series London & Scotland, WP ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division, WP Absa Currie Cup Compulsory Friendlies, WP ABSA Under 21 Competition
- 2008 – Stormers Vodacom Super 14, WP Vodacom Cup, WP Absa Currie Cup Compulsory Friendlies, WP ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division
- 2009 – WP MTN test, Stormers Vodacom Super 14, WP ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division
- 2010 – Stormers Vodacom Super 14, WP Absa Currie Cup Compulsory Friendlies, WP ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division
- 2011 – DHL Stormers Vodacom Super Rugby, DHL WP ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division
- 2012 – DHL Stormers Vodacom Super Rugby, DHL WP ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division
- 2013 – DHL Stormers Vodacom Super Rugby, DHL WP Absa Currie Cup Premier Division
Starters:
The likely scenario will be to see Tiaan Libenberg start, with Scarra Ntubeni as his replacement on the bench and with Deon Fourie on as openside flank. The return of Schalk Burger after injury and the quality play of Siya Kolisi leaves a big question mark on whether the Stormers will even contemplate using Deon Fourie as openside flank.
Due to the history we have witnessed the last couple of season at the Stormers, it will most likely pan out that Scarra Ntubeni will not see much game time ahead of Liebenberg and Fourie.
Only time will tell what the Stormers have planned. In the big picture however it would seem that somewhere a talented player or two will not going to see much game time.
Locks:
Name: Ruan Botha:
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Ruan Botha is a product of Brakpan East Primary School and Jeugland High School.
He made his provincial debut on 31 March 2012 as the Golden Lions thrashed the Griffons 71-25 in Johannesburg. Botha started the match before being replaced in the 62nd minute by Hendrik Roodt.
His first call-up to the Lions Super Rugby team came ahead of the side’s Australian tour during the 2012 Super Rugby season. He made the starting fifteen for the first time in the match against the Chiefs in Hamilton on 5 May 2012.
Botha was named in the South Africa Under 20 team that won the 2012 IRB Junior World Championship.
He is still a young player and will be hoping to get some game time in Super Rugby 2014. He already has 5 Super Rugby caps under his belt.
The Stormers do not have quite as much experience amongst the locks as they would have liked to have and with Eben Etzebeth out injured, Ruan Botha will be hoping that his button is pushed for selection.
His playing career is as follows:
- 2010 – Valke – U18 Craven Week, South Africa – SA U18 High Performance
- 2011 – MTN Golden Lions – Vodacom Cup, Lions – ABSA Under 21 Competition, Lions – ABSA Under 19 Competition
- 2012 – MTN Lions – Vodacom Super Rugby, MTN Golden Lions – Vodacom Cup, South Africa – IRB Junior World Championship, MTN Golden Lions – ABSA Under 21 Competition, MTN Golden Lions – ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division
- 2013 – DHL Western Province – Vodacom Cup, Stormers – Vodacom Super Rugby, DHL Western Province – ABSA Under 21 Competition
Name: Manuel Carizza:
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Manuel Carizza (born 23 August 1984 in Rosario) is an Argentine rugby union footballer.
He has previously played for French sides Biarritz and Racing Métro in the Top 14 competition and for the Argentine club Jockey Club de Rosario. He has also played for the Argentina national team. His usual position is at lock.
He made his international debut for Argentina in December 2004 in a match against South Africa, which the Springboks won by 39 points to 7. He next played for the Pumas in April 2005, where he was called up to the starting line-up against Japan. He then played in the November Tests against the Springboks, Scotland and Italy.
He was again capped in June 2006 in one of the Tests against Wales during the hosting of a two match series, which Argentina eventually won. He was capped against Chile and Uruguay in July, in the starting line-up for both games. He now has 40 international caps under his belt. There has been a lot of questions regarding his inclusion in the Stormers side. Is he there for depth or is he going to become a regular feature in this years Super Rugby.
He signed for South African Super Rugby side the Stormers for the 2014 Super Rugby season.
One has to feel that with Eben Etzebeth out injured that Manuel will be the most likely partner with De Kock Steenkamp in the lock positions.
His playing career is as follows:
- 1989 – 2005 – Jockey Club de Rosario
- 2002 – 2003 – Argentina Under 19
- 2004 – Argentina Under 21, Argentina A, Argentina
- 2005 – Argentina Under 21
- 2005 – 2011 – Biarritz, Argentina
- 2012 – Racing Metro, Argentina
- 2013 – Racing Metro, Argentina
Name: Eben Etzebeth:
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Eben Etzebeth is a product of Goodwood Park Primary School and Tygerberg High School.
On 23 November 2013 he was nominated for IRB player of the year for 2013.
He made his Stormers debut on 25 February 2012 against the Hurricanes. He was also awarded Man of the Match playing for the victorious Western Province team in the semi-final of the 2012 Currie Cup. In April 2013, he signed a deal that will keep him in Cape Town until 2016.
He was a member of the South Africa Under 20 team that competed in the 2011 IRB Junior World Championship.
Etzebeth was called up to the Springbok squad for the first time by new head coach Heyneke Meyer ahead of the three match series against England in June 2012.
He made his first appearance in the second row alongside fellow debutant Juandré Kruger on 9 June 2012 at Kings Park Stadium, Durban. South Africa were victorious by 22-17. He also played in the next 2 Tests in the series as South Africa ran out 2-0 winners.
Etzebeth has gained a reputation as a fierce and uncompromising player in his first year playing at the top level of rugby union. His height and strength make him a formidable opponent, and he often breaks the defensive line with strong charging runs.
Etzebeth is a invaluable player. He gives 150% and he makes his presence felt on the field.
Until he returns from injury there will be a big void to fill.
His playing career is as follows:
- 2009 – WP – U18 Coca-Cola Craven Week, SA U18 High Performance – SA Schools
- 2010 – Western Province – ABSA Under 19 Competition
- 2011 – DHL Western Province – Vodacom Cup, UCT – Varsity Cup, South Africa – IRB Junior World Championships, DHL Western Province – ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division, Western Province – ABSA Under 21 Competition
- 2012 – DHL Stormers – Vodacom Super Rugby, South Africa – Castle Incoming Tours, DHL Western Province – ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division, South Africa – The Rugby Championship, South Africa – Castle Outgoing Tours
- 2013 – DHL Stormers – Vodacom Super Rugby, South Africa – Castle Lager Incoming Series, DHL Western Province – ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division, South Africa – The Rugby Championship, South Africa – Castle Lager Outgoing Tour
Name: Douw Gerbrandt “Gerbrandt” Grobler:
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Gerbrandt Grobler went to Lynnwood Primary School, Afrikaanse Hoër Seunskool in Pretoria and attended University of Stellenbosch (Maties) and represented the Blue Bulls at the 2010 Craven Week. He then joined Western Province, where he played at Under-19 and Under-21 level.
He was included in the Western Province squad for the 2012 Vodacom Cup, making his debut in the 42–31 Quarter Final victory over the Free State XV.
He made 3 more first class appearances for Western Province in the 2013 Vodacom Cup before being included on the bench for the Stormers’ Super Rugby game against the Cheetahs.
Grobler will most likely be seen as the last choice lock in this side. He is still quite young and made his Super Rugby debut in 2013.
As mentioned earlier that Eben Etzebeth is still injured, the other youngsters in the squad including Grobler will be hoping to get some game time and make his mark as well.
It is unlikely that he will be featuring regularly in the 2014 Super Rugby season.
His playing career is as follows:
- 2010 – Blue Bulls – U18 Craven Week
- 2011 – Western Province – ABSA Under 19 Competition
- 2012 – DHL Western Province – Vodacom Cup, DHL Western Province – ABSA Under 21 Competition
- 2013 – DHL Western Province – Vodacom Cup, Stormers – Vodacom Super Rugby, DHL Western Province – ABSA Under 21 Competition, DHL Western Province – ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division
Name: Michiel De Kock “De Kock” Steenkamp:
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De Kock Steenkamp was born and raised in the Western Cape alongside older brother Wilhelm who went on to play for the Bulls, Sharks, Cheetahs and Force in Super Rugby. He attended Paarl Boys’ High School and matriculated in 2005 before going on to study at Stellenbosch University. Whilst there he played Varsity Cup rugby for Maties during the inaugural competition in 2008 and was a late substitute as his side lifted the trophy with a 16-10 victory over UCT.
Steenkamp was a member of various Western Province age-level groups between 2005 and 2008 and made his senior debut against the Natal Sharks during the 2009 Vodacom Cup. He got his first taste of Super Rugby the following year playing 7 times for the Stormers but had to largely make do with deputising for absent Springboks such as Andries Bekker for the next 2 years.
2012 Could be seen as a breakout year for Steenkamp. Although mainly featuring as a substitute during the Super Rugby season he provided strong cameos from the bench in place of either Andries Bekker or Eben Etzebeth and also led the Stormers line out when either of their star men were injured. He then went on to feature in all of Western Province’s games during the 2012 Currie Cup and he was a key man as they landed their first title since 2001 with a 25-19 win over the Natal Sharks.
An injury to Eben Etzebeth which ruled him out of much of the 2013 Super Rugby season saw Steenkamp become firmly entrenched in the Stormers starting side. He made 13 starts in a largely disappointing campaign for the men from the Cape and earned a reputation as one of the most consistent performers in South African rugby. This reputation was enhanced by his performances in the Currie Cup later in the year as he started every game for Western Province. It was a season in which they would again reach the tournament final, but this time they fell just short, losing 33-19 at home to the Sharks.
Steenkamp will remain in Cape Town until at least 2015 after he signed a contract extension in April 2013.
Steenkamp is a very reliable lock and consistent player and will almost certainly be one of the stating locks at the DHL Stormers in 2014.
His playing career is as follows:
- 2005 – Investec Western province – U18 Coca Cola Craven Week
- 2006 – Vodacom Western Province – ABSA Under 19 Competition
- 2007 – Vodacom WP U/21 – ABSA Under 21 Competition
- 2008 – Maties – FNB Varsity Cup, Vodacom WP – Vodacom Cup, Vodaom WP U/21 – ABSA Under 21 Competition
- 2009 – Western Province – Vodacom Cup, WP – MTN test, Vodacom Western Province – British & Irish Lions Tour, Vodacom Western Province – ABSA Currie Cup Compulsory Friendlies, Vodacom Western Province – ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division
- 2010 – Vodacom Stormers – Vodacom Super 14, Vodacom Western Province – ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division
- 2011 – DHL Stormers – Vodacom Super Rugby, DHL Western Province – ABSA Currie Cup Compulsory friendlies, DHL Western Province – ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division
- 2012 – DHL Stormers – Vodacom Super Rugby, DHL Western Province – ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division
- 2013 – DHL Stormers – Vodacom Super Rugby, DHL Western Province – ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division
Starters:
The DHL Stormers have some picking to do in their lock division. With Eben Etzebeth still out injured they have 2 remaining experienced locks and two youngsters.
On paper the most logical selection will be Manuel Carizza and De Kock Steenkamp as starting locks and Ruan Botha on the bench till Eben Etzebeth returns from injury.
Picking a starting combination here could be tricky and very interesting.
Loose Forwards:
Name: Schalk Willem Petrus “Schalk” Burger:
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Burger is a product of Hugo Rust Primary, Paarl Gymnasium and University of Stellenbosch.
Burger has been around the block quite a bit. He started his career with Western Province U/21 way back in 2002. From there he achieved great highs. He Was part of the 2007 World Cup winning Springbok squad and he was also part of the Springbok sides that won the 2004 and 2009 Tri-Nations. He was also voted SA Rugby Player of the Year in 2004 and 2011.
He was also nominated as Young SA Rugby Player of the Year in 2003 and 2004 and was voted IRB Player of the Year in 2004. To top it off he holds a combined record (in conjunction with Juan Smith) for most tries as a Springbok flanker with 11 tries.
There has been a lot of question marks regarding Burger and whether it is time to retire. Burger will always give 150% and being well rested after his long term injury, he would like to prove a point in 2014. The Stormers have quite a number of quality loose forwards, so the competition will be stiff with no margin for error.
His playing career is as follows:
- 2002 – Western Province U/21 – Bankfin Under 21, Western province U/19 – U19 Competition
- 2003 – Investec Stormers – Vodacom Super 12, Investec Western Province – Vodacom Shield, South Africa – IRB U21 World Cup, Investec WP – ABSA Currie Cup – Premier Div, South Africa – RWC Warm-ups, South Africa – IRB Rugby World Cup
- 2004 – Western Province – ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division, Investec Stormers – Vodacom Super 12, South Africa – Vodacom Incoming Tours, South Africa – Vodacom Tri-Nations, South Africa – Vodacom Outgoing Tours
- 2005 – South Africa – Vodacom Outgoing Tours, Investec Stormers – Vodacom Super 12, South Africa – Vodacom Incoming Tours, Investec Western Province – ABSA Currie Cup Qualifying Round, South Africa – Vodacom Tri-Nations, South Africa – Nelson Mandela Challenge, Investec Western Province – ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division
- 2006 – Vodacom Stormers – Vodacom Super 14, South Africa – Vodacom Incoming Tours
- 2007 – South Africa – World Cup warm-up matches, Vodacom Stormers – Vodacom Super 14, South Africa – Vodacom Incoming Tours, South Africa – Vodacom Tri-Nations, South Africa – Vodacom Outgoing Tour, South Africa – IRB Rugby World Cup
- 2008 – Vodacom Stormers – Vodacom Super 14, South Africa – Vodacom Incoming Tours, Vodacom WP – ABSA Currie Cup Premier Div, South Africa – Vodacom Tri-Nations, South Africa – Vodacom Outgoing Tour
- 2009 – Vodacom Stormers – Vodacom Super 14, South Africa – British & Irish Lions Tour, Vodacom Western Province – ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division, South Africa – Vodacom Tri-Nations, South Africa – Vodacom Outgoing Tours
- 2010 – South Africa – Vodacom Incoming Tours, Vodacom Stormers – Vodacom Super 14, South Africa – Vodacom Tri-Nations, Vodacom Western Province – ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division
- 2011 – DHL Stormers – Vodacom Super Rugby, DHL Western Province – ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division, South Africa – IRB Rugby World Cup
- 2012 – DHL Stormers – Vodacom Super Rugby
- 2013 – Stormers – Vodacom Super Rugby, DHL Western Province – Absa Currie Cup Premier Division
Name: Rynhardt Elstadt:
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Elstadt is a product of Montagu Primary and Montagu High.
Elstadt started his rugby at Boland at U/16 level in 2005 and he also represented Boland at U/18 level before making his move to Cape Town to represent Western Province at U/19 level in 2008. He was also part of the Junior Springbok squad in 2009.
Elstadt is a very physical player that will never shy away from contact. He is better known as a lock and there will be no surprises if this is where he gets picked this season.
He is also known for his aggressive play and should work on his discipline.
His playing career is as follows:
- 2005 – Boland – U16 Coca Cola Grant Khomo Week
- 2006 – Boland – U18 Coca Cola Craven Week
- 2007 – Boland – U18 Coca-Cola Craven Week
- 2008 – Vodacom Western Province U/19 – ABSA Under 19 Competition
- 2009 – South Africa – IRB Junior World Championships, Western province – ABSA Under 21 Competition
- 2010 – Maties – FNB Varsity Cup, Western Province – Vodacom Cup, Western Province – ABSA Currie Cup Compulsory Friendlies, Vodacom Western Province – ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division
- 2011 – DHL Storemers – Vodacom Super Rugby, DHL Western Province – ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division
- 2012 – DHL Stormers – Vodacom Super Rugby, DHL Western Province – Vodacom Cup, DHL Western Province – ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division
- 2013 – Stormers – Vodacom Super Rugby, DHL Western Province – ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division
Name: Rohan Kitshoff:
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Rohan Kitshoff is a product of Namibia. He attended Vredenburg Primary, HTS Drostdy and CPUT.
Kitshoff started his provincial career in 2006 where he represented Western Province at U/21 level. He has represented local sides Western Province and Griquas. He also represented his country (Namibia) at the 2011 World Cup.
It is a difficult task to place Rohan Kitshoff in this side. He has quite a number of provincial caps and only 1 cap in Super Rugby. He will relish the chance at some game time, yet he will most likely be low down in the pecking order, considering that the Stormers are boasting 3 Springboks in their loose forward division.
His playing career is as follows:
- 2006 – Vodacom Western Province – ABSA Under 21 Competition, Vodacom Western Province – Vodacom Cup
- 2007 – Vodacom Western Province – Vodacom Cup, Wildeklawer Griquas – ABSA Currie Cup Premier Div, Vodacom Western Province – ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division
- 2008 – Wildeklawer Griquas – Vodacom Cup, Wildeklawer Griquas – ABSA Currie Cup Compulsory Friendlies, Wildeklawer Griquas – ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division
- 2009 – GWK Griquas – Vodacom Cup, GWK Griquas – ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division
- 2010 – Griquas – Vodacom Cup, GWK Griquas – ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division
- 2011 – DHL Western Province – Vodacom Cup, DHL Stormers – Vodacom Super Rugby, DHL Western Province – ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division, Namibia – IRB Rugby World Cup
- 2012 – DHL Western Province – Vodacom Cup
- 2013 – DHL Western Province – Vodacom Cup, Stormers – Vodacom Super Rugby, DHL Western Province – ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division
Name: Siyamthanda “Siya” Kolisi:
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Kolisi is a product of Grey Junior School and Grey High School in Port Elizabeth.
Kolisi represented Eastern Province at U/16 level back in 2007 and has only moved upwards from there. He was scooped up by Western Province in 2010 after he represented the Junior Springboks at the IRB Junior World Championships. He was part of the Springbok training squad in 2012 and went on to make his debut in 2013 against Scotland in the Castle Lager Incoming Series.
Kolisi has become quite a favourite at Newlands. There will be a number of brows raised, if he does not get regular game time.
His playing career is as follows:
- 2007 – Eastern Province – U16 Coca-Cola Grant Khomo Week
- 2008 – U/18 Elite Squad – Elite Squads, South Africa – SA Schools, Eastern Province – U18 Coca-Cola Craven Week, BA Mighty Elephants – ABSA Under 19 Competition
- 2009 – EP – U18 Coca-Cola Craven Week, South Africa – SA U/18 High Performance, South Africa – SA Schools
- 2010 – South Africa – IRB Junior World Championships, Western Province – ABSA Under 21 Competition, Western Province – ABSA Under 19 Competition
- 2011 – DHL Western Province – Vodacom Cup, UCT – Varsity Cup, DHL Stormers – Vodacom Super Rugby, South Africa – IRB Junior World Championships, DHL Western Province – ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division, Western Provicne – ABSA Under 21 Competition
- 2012 – DHL Stormers – Vodacom Super Rugby, DHL Western Province – ABSA Under 21 Competition, DHL Western Province – ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division, South Africa – The Rugby Championship
- 2013 – DHL Stormers – Vodacom Super Rugby, South Africa – Castle Incoming Series, DHL Western Province – ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division, South Africa – The Rugby Championship, South Africa – Castle Outgoing Tours
Name: Michael Kenworthy “Michael” Rhodes:
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Rhodes is a product of Riverview Primary and Michaelhouse.
Rhodes started his career at the Sharks back in 2005 at U/18 level, since then he has represented the Lions and now the Stormers.
Rhodes is a very versatile player and for a big forward has some pace as well. There has been a lot of questions regarding his starting position. Most would feel that he should start at lock and not even be listed as a loose forward.
Under current circumstances in the squad Rhodes is the perfect replacement as he can play at both lock and loose forward. It will be interesting to see how the Stormers coaching staff uses Rhodes and what his role will be.
His playing career is as follows:
- 2005 – Kwa-Zulu Natal – U18 Coca Cola Craven Week
- 2006 – KZN U/19 – ABSA Under 19 Competition
- 2007 – Sharks XV – ABSA Currie Cup Compulsory Friendlies, Shraks U/21 – ABSA Under 21 Competition
- 2008 – Wildebeest – Vodacom Cup, Sharks U/21 – ABSA Under 21 Competition
- 2009 – Sharks XV – Vodacom Cup, Sharks – British & Irish Lions Tour, Sharks – ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division
- 2010 – Sharks – Vodacom Super 14, Sharks XV – Vodacom Cup, Sharks Invitational XV – ABSA Currie Cup Compulsory Friendlies, Sharks – ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division
- 2011 – MTN Golden Lions – Vodacom Cup, MTN Lions – Vodacom Super Rugby, MTN Golden Lions – ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division
- 2012 – MTN Lions – Vodacom Super Rugby, MTN Golden Lions – ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division
- 2013 – DHL Western Province – Vodacom Cup, DHL Stormers – Vodacom Super Rugby, DHL Western Province – ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division
Name: Nizaam Carr:
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Nizaam Carr is a product of West End Primary, Bishops High and UCT.
Carr is a local lad and has been true to Western Province since he started playing rugby. He first represented Western Province at U/16 level back in 2007. He is still a young player and with one or two more seasons under the belt, could mature into a world class act. He is known for being a No 8 and is currently playing in Springbok Duane Vermeulen’s shadow. Carr has however proven that in Duane’s absence he is more than capable to play the No 8 role.
As already stated, Carr finds himself in a squad with 3 Springbok loose forwards, so selection to start could see him suffer a bit. Having said so, I am sure that Carr will see some game time and is the perfect player to have for rotation with Duane Vermeulen at No 8.
His playing career is as follows:
- 2007 – Western Province – U16 Coca-Cola Grant Khomo Week
- 2008 – South Africa – U/18 Elite Squad, Western Province – U18 Coca-Cola Craven Week
- 2009 – WP – U18 Coca-Cola Craven Week, South Africa – SA U/18 High Performance, South Africa – SA Schools, Western Province – ABSA Under 19 Competition
- 2010 – Western Province – ABSA Under 19 Competition
- 2011 – UCT – Varsity Cup, South Africa – IRB Junior World Championships, DHL Western Province – ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division, Western Province – ABSA Under 21 Competition
- 2012 – DHL Stormers – Vodacom Super Rugby, DHL Western Province – Vodacom Cup, DHL Western Province – ABSA Under 21 Competition
- 2013 – DHL Western Province – Vodacom Cup, DHL Stormers – Vodacom Super Rugby, DHL Western Province – ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division
Name: Daniel Johannes “Duane” Vermeulen:
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Duane Vermeulen is a product of Nelspruit Primary School, Nelspruit High School and RAU.
He is the MAN of the hour when it comes to loose forwards in South Africa. He has become a force to be reckoned with world wide and is very close to Kieran Reid as the prime No 8 in world rugby. Being born in Nelspruit, Vermeulen started his career in Mpumalanga and the Pumas back in 2004 at U/18 level. He represented the Pumas until 2006 when he made a move to the Free State in 2007 for a two year stint before making his move down to Cape Town in 2009.
There will be no doubt as to who the starting No 8 at the Stormers will be this season and most likely for some seasons to come. What makes Vermeulen unique is that he can fetch like a proper fetcher and put in hits like a run away train.
His playing career is as follows:
- 2004 – Mpumalanga – U18 Coca-Cola Craven Week, @tlantinc Pumas – ABSA U20 Competition Section B
- 2005 – @lantic Pumas – ABSA Currie Cup Qualifying Round, Pumas – ABSA Under 21 Competition, @tlantic Pumas – ABSA Currie Cup First Division
- 2006 – @tlantic Pumas – Vodacom Cup, @talntic Pumas – ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division
- 2007 – Vodacom Cheetahs – Vodacom Super 14, Free State – Vodacom Cup, Vodacom Free State Cheetahs – ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division
- 2008 – Vodacom Cheetahs – Vodacom Super 14, Vodacom FS Cheetahs – ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division
- 2009 – Vodacom Stormers – Vodacom Super 14, Vodacom Western Province – British & Irish Lions Tour, Emerging Springboks – British & Irish Lions Tour, Vodacom Western Province – ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division
- 2010 – Vodacom Stormers – Vodacom Super 14, Western Province – ABSA Currie Cup Compulsory Friendlies, Vodacom Western Province – ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division
- 2011 – DHL Stormers – Vodacom Super Rugby, DHL Western Province – ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division
- 2012 – DHL Stormers – Vodacom Super Rugby, DHL Western Province – ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division, Springboks – The Rugby Championship, Springboks – Castle Outgoing Tours
- 2013 – DHL Stormers – Vodacom Super Rugby, DHL Western Province – ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division, Springboks – The Rugby Championship, Springboks – Castle Outgoing Tours
Starters:
How to pick a loose forward trio here… one is quite an easy choice, Duane Vermeulen at No 8.
One feels that the best combination here would be to pick Deon Fourie at Openside flank (No 6), Siya Kolisi at Blindside flank (No 7) and Duane Vermeulen at No 8.
Deon Fourie was however listed as a hooker and this could mean that Schalk Burger could start at Openside (No 6), which would mean that there will be no recognized fetchers in the starting lineup.
Let’s just hope that the Stormers coaching staff have considered the ramifications properly and caused themselves some headaches as to who of the players (Rhodes & Elstadt) listed as loose forwards are better knows as locks.
It will be quite interesting who will be picked in what positions, when it comes to actual game time. One thing is for sure, Stormers fans are in for a few selection surprises.
Scrumhalves:
Name: Nicholas James “Nic” Groom :
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Nic Groom is a product of Rondebosch Boys Preparotory School, Rondebosch Boys High School and the University of Cape Town (UCT).
Groom started his career at Western Province back in 2008 at Under 18 level and has been loyal to Western Province and the Stormers. Groom is no stranger to Super Rugby already, with 11 caps for the Stormers. He also has 49 provincial caps and two seasons of Varsity Cup behind him.
Groom will most likely see some game time, he is however likely to be the second choice scrumhalf in this Stormers squad behind Louis Schreuder.
His playing career is as follows:
- 2008 – Western Province – U18 Academy Week
- 2010 – UCT – Varsity Cup, Western Province – ABSA Under 21 Competition
- 2011 – DHL Western Province – Vodacom Cup, UCT – Varsity Cup, DHL Stormers – Vodacom Super Rugby, DHL Western Province – ABSA Currie Cup Compulsory Friendlies, DHL Western Province – ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division, Western Province – ABSA Under 21 Competition
- 2012 – DHL Stormers – Vodacom Super Rugby, DHL Western Province – Vodacom Cup, DHL Western Province – ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division
- 2013 – DHL Western Province – Vodacom Cup, DHL Stormers – Vodacom Super Rugby, DHL Western Province – ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division
Name: Louis Schreuder:
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Louis Schreuder is a product of Paarl Gymnasium and the University of Stellenbosch (Maties).
Schreuder started his career in 2006 at Under 16 level for Western Province. He was part of the Junior Springbok squad in 2010 and in 2013 he was also part of the Springbok squad for the Castle Lager Incoming and Outgoing Tour squads but is not yet capped. He would like to prove his worth in 2014 and give the Springbok coach some thinking to do at scrumhalf.
Schreuder will most likely be picked as the starting scrumhalf in most games and rightfully so. He is a solid defender and very potent on the attack. Many a brow will be raised should Schreuder not be picked as the starting scrumhalf.
His playing career is as follows:
- 2006 – Western Province – U16 Coca Cola Grant Khomo Week
- 2007 – Western Province – U18 Academy Week
- 2008 – South Africa – U/18 Elite Squads, Western Province – U18 Coca-Cola Craven Week
- 2009 – Western Province – ABSA Under 19 Competition
- 2010 – Maties – Varsity Cup, Western Province – Vodacom Cup, South Africa – IRB Junior World Championships, Vodacom Western Province – ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division, Western Province – ABSA Under 21 Competition
- 2011 – DHL Western Province – Vodacom Cup, DHL Stormers – Vodacom Super Rugby, DHL Western Province – ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division, Western Province – ABSA Under 21 Competition
- 2012 – DHL Stormers – Vodacom Super Rugby, DHL Western Province – ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division
- 2013 – DHL Stormers – Vodacom Super Rugby, Springboks – Castle Lager Incoming Series squad member, DHL Western Province – ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division, Springboks – Castle Lager Outgoing Tour
Name: Johannes Haindly Joseph “Bolla” Conradie:
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Bolla Conradie is a product of Kasselsvlei Primary School, Kasselsvlei Secondary School & Bellville South High School.
Conradie made his debut back in 1998 for Western Province Under 21 and at that time soon became a crowd favourite. Conradie boasts 136 provincial caps, 77 Super Rugby caps, 18 Springbok caps and he is also not bad at kicking to goal. He started his career at Western Province before making a move to the Boland Cavaliers in 2010. He found himself back in the Western Province Currie Cup squad in 2013.
Conradie will most likely not see too much game time. He is however a very capable replacement to have in your side should one of the regular scrumhalves pick up an injury.
His playing career is as follows:
- 1998 – Fedsure WP – Bankfin Under 21
- 1999 – Fedsure WP – Bankfin Under 21
- 2000 – Fedsure Western Province – Bankfin Currie Cup, Fedsure WP Pres A – SA Cup
- 2001 – Fedsure Western Province – Vodacom Cup, Fedsure Western Province – Bankfin Currie Cup
- 2002 – Stormers – Vodacom Super 12, Springboks – Incoming Tours, Springboks – Vodacom Tri-Nations, Investec Western Province – Bankfin Currie Cup, Springboks – Outgoing Tour
- 2003 – Investec Stormers – Vodacom Super 12, SA ‘A’ – Vodacom Incoming Tours, Investec WP – ABSA Currie Cup – Premier Division
- 2004 – Western Province – ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division, Investec Stormers – Vodacom Super 12, Springboks – Vodacom Incoming Tours, Springboks – Vodacom Tri-Nations, Springboks – Vodacom Outgoing Tours
- 2005 – Investec Stormers – Vodacom Super 12, Springboks – Vodacom Incoming Tours, Investec Western Province – ABSA Currie Cup Qualifying Round, Investec Western Province – ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division
- 2006 – Vodacom Stormers – Vodacom Super 14, Vodacom Western Province – ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division
- 2007 – Vodacom Stormers – Vodacom Super 14, Springboks – Vodacom Tri-Nations, Vodacom Western Province – ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division
- 2008 – Vodacom Stormers – Vodacom Super 14, Springboks – Vodacom Incoming Tours, Vodacom WP – ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division, Springboks – Vodacom Tri-Nations
- 2009 – Western Province – Vodacom Cup, Vodacom Stormers – Vodacom Super 14, Vodacom Western Province – ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division
- 2010 – Vodacom Stormers – Vodacom Super 14, Boland Kavaliers – Vodacom Cup, Boland – ABSA Currie Cup First Division
- 2011 – Boland Cavaliers – Vodacom Cup, Boland Cavaliers – ABSA Currie Cup Compulsory Friendlies, Regent Boland Cavaliers – ABSA Currie Cup First Division
- 2012 – Regent Boland Cavaliers – Vodacom Cup, Regent Boland Cavaliers – ABSA Currie Cup First Division
- 2013 – DHL Western Province – Vodacom Cup, DHL Western Province – ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division
Starters:
It is unlikely that the DHL Stormers will have a problem at scrumhalf. The most likely combination will be Louis Schreuder to start most games, with Nic Groom as bench back-up.
Bolla Conradie would however bring in very capable depth should it be required anywhere during the season. It will also not come as a surprise should he start one or two games.
Flyhalves:
Name: Demetri Catrakilis:
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Demetri Catrakilis is a product of Saheti Primary School, St John’s College, University of Johannesburg (UJ) and University of Cape Town (UCT).
He started his career in 2006 when he represented the Lions at Under 18 level. He has grown quite a lot from there and has gone on to represent Western Province in the Currie Cup and the Southern Kings at Super Rugby level.
Catrakilis showed his true value as a player in last season of Super Rugby where he was a shining star in a struggling Southern Kings side and was also responsible for majority of their points in the 2013 season.
Catrakilis has however not had the brightest stays at Western Province and Allister Coetzee has come into question a lot regarding this matter. He is virtually the No 2 flyhalf in South Africa behind Morné Steyn, however at Western Province he seems to be undervalued and quite a bit lower in the pecking order.
The whole of South Africa will most likely be baffled if Demetri Catrkilis is not the starting flyhalf at the DHL Stormers this season. The big question is what does Catrakilis still have to do to prove to Allister Coetzee that he is the only starting option at flyhalf or will Allister Coetzee still stare blindly to Peter Grant, who should be 4th in this team’s pecking order.
His playing career is as follows:
- 2006 – Lions – U18 Academy Week
- 2007 – Lions – U18 Academy Week
- 2008 – Golden Lions – ABSA Under 19 Competition
- 2011 – DHL Western Province – Vodacom Cup, UCT – Varsity Cup, DHL Western Province – ABSA Currie Cup Compulsory Friendlies, DHL Western Province – ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division
- 2012 – DHL Western Province – Vodacom Cup, DHL Western Province – ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division
- 2013 – Southern Kings – Vodacom Super Rugby, Eastern Province Kings – ABSA Currie Cup First Division, Southern Kings – Super Rugby Promotion / Relegation, DHL Western Province – ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division
Name: Kurt Kendall “Kurt” Coleman:
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Kurt Coleman is a product of Knysna Primary School, Grey High School and Stellenbosch University (Maties).
He started his career in 2008 when he represented Eastern Province at Under 18 level. He made his move to Western Province in 2009 and has remained loyal to Cape Town. He first represented the Stormers in Super Rugby in 2011.
I feel that Coleman and Catrakilis should be number 1 an 2 in this team’s starting lineup at flyhalf. Coleman is a young and talented player and has a bright future ahead of him.
Let’s just hope that Allister Coetzee can look past Peter Grant in his team selection.
His playing career is as follows:
- 2008 – South Africa – U18 Elite Squads, Eastern Province – U18 Coca-Cola Craven Week
- 2009 – Western Province – ABSA Under 19 Competition
- 2010 – Western Province – ABSA Under 21 Competition
- 2011 – DHL Western Province – Vodacom Cup, Maties – Varsity Cup, DHL Stormers – Vodacom Super Rugby, DHL Western Province – ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division, Western Province – ABSA Under 21 Competition
- 2012 – DHL Western Province – Vodacom Cup, SWD Eagles – ABSA Currie Cup First Division, DHL Western Province – ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division
- 2013 – DHL Western Province – Vodacom Cup, Stormers – Vodacom Super Rugby, DHL Western Province – ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division
Name: Peter John ” Peter” Grant:
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Peter Grant is a product of Port Shepstone Primary School, Maritzburg College & the University of Stellenbosch (Maties).
He first came into prominence in 2002 when he represented Natal at Under 19 level. He made his move down to Cape Town in 2003 and remained there until a few seasons ago when he left for a Japanese-based Club. He however returns yearly to still form part of the Stormers Super Rugby squad every season.
I feel that Grant should be No 4 in the pecking order in this squad, at flyhalf. He was good a couple of season ago, there are however younger and better players in the side at present. Allister Coetzee however likes to push on Grant’s button when it comes to Super Rugby. I think that if this is the case, that it will not be a good thing for the Stormers.
His playing career is as follows:
- 2002 – Natal – U19 Competition
- 2003 – South Africa – IRB FIRA-AER U19 World Championship, Investec WP – ABSA U20 A Section
- 2004 – Western Province – ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division, Investec Western Province – ABSA U20 Competition Section A
- 2005 – Investec Western Province – Vodacom Cup, Investec Western Province – ABSA Currie Cup Qualifying Round, Investec Western Province – ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division
- 2006 – Vodacom Stormers – Vodacom Super 14, Vodacom Western Province – ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division
- 2007 – Vodacom Stormers – Vodacom Super 14, SA Emerging Springboks – IRB Nations Cup, South Africa – Vodacom Tri-Nations, Vodacom Western Province – ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division, Springboks vs Barbarians – Vodacom Outgoing Tour
- 2008 – Vodacom Stormers – Vodacom Super 14, Springboks – Vodacom Incoming Tours, Vodacom WP – ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division, Springboks – Vodacom Tri-Nations
- 2009 – WP – MTN test, Vodacom Stormers – Vodacom Super 14, Vodacom Western Province – British & Irish Lions Tour, Vodacom Western Province – ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division
- 2010 – Vodacom Stormers – Vodacom Super 14, Kobelco Steelers in Japan
- 2011 – DHL Stormers – Vodacom Super Rugby, Kobelco Steelers in Japan
- 2012 – DHL Stormers – Vodacom Super Rugby, Kobelco Steelers in Japan
- 2013 – Stormers – Vodacom Super Rugby, Kobelco Steelers in Japan
Name: Gary Jacques “Gary” van Aswegen:
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Gary van Aswegen is a product of Standerton Primary School & Standerton High School.
He started his career in 2006 when he represented Mpumalanga at Under 16 level. He remained in the province and represented the Pumas in 2007 and 2008 and made his move to Western Province in 2009.
Van Aswegen has had very bad luck in Super Rugby and in rugby in general with various injuries hampering him. He however finds himself in a squad with two very talented young flyhalves and in my opinion should be the 3rd choice flyhalf in this squad.
It will also help Van Aswegen quite a bit if his body can last more than 3 games, should his button be pressed on.
His playing career is as follows:
- 2006 – Mpumalanga – U16 Coca Cola Grant Khomo Week
- 2007 – Pumas – U18 Academy Week
- 2008 – South Africa – U/18 Elite Squadss, Pumas – U18 Coca-Cola Craven Week
- 2009 – Western Province – ABSA Under 19 Competition
- 2010 – Western Province – Vodacom Cup, Vodacom Western Province – ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division, Western Province – ABSA Under 21 Competition
- 2011 – DHL Western Province – Vodacom Cup, DHL Stormers – Vodacom Super Rugby , DHL Western Province – ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division, Western Province – ABSA Under 21 Competition
- 2012 – DHL Stormers – Vodacom Super Rugby, DHL Western Province – ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division
- 2013 – DHL Western Province – Vodacom Cup, DHL Stormers – Vodacom Super Rugby, DHL Western Province – ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division
Starters:
Under all circumstances this is a no brainer in the minds of supporters out there, but not in the mind of the DHL Stormers coaching staff. Demetri Catrakilis needs to start at flyhalf and Kurt Coleman should be the bench option. Allister Coetzee however tends to swim against the tide at times.
My starting combination will be as mentioned above, with Gary van Aswegen as my 3rd choice.
Do not be surprised if Peter Grant gets the nod however, with Kurt Coleman on the bench, as this is possibly just how Allister Coetzee sees it.
Only time will tell how selections will be handled in this team but since doing these articles, it would seem as though the DHL Stormers coaching staff are making a lot of work for themselves.
Midfield:
Name: Juan Leon “Juan” de Jongh:
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Juan de Jongh is a product of Hugenote Primary School and Hugenote High School.
He started his career in 2006 with Boland and represented them at Under 18 level. In 2007 he moved to Western Province where he started at Under 19 level. He remained loyal to Western Province and the Stormers since then. He has represented Western Province and the Stormers on all levels and has proven his worth through and through. He made his debut for the Springboks in 2010 after he was part of the 2009 Springbok squad, but did not get to play.
De Jongh is difficult to place here. Should he start alongside Jean de Villiers or should he come from the bench as an impact player, with Jean de Villiers and Damian de Allende as the starting pair. De Jongh has the talent to start in most sides throughout the world, but the only weakness I feel he has is that he tends to be a bit selfish with ball in hand.
His playing career is as follows:
- 2006 – South Africa – SA Schools U/18 B, Boland – U18 Coca Cola Craven Week
- 2007 – Vodacom WP – ABSA Under 19 Competition
- 2008 – Vodacom Stormers – Vodacom Super 14, Maties – Varsity Cup, WP – MTN test
- 2009 – Western Province – Vodacom Cup, Maties – Varsity Cup, Vodacom Western Province – ABSA Currie Cup Compulsory Friendlies, Vodacom Western Province – ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division, Springbok squad member – Vodacom Outgoing Tours
- 2010 – Springboks – Vodacom Incoming Tours, Vodacom Stormers – Vodacom Super 14, Springboks – Vodacom Tri-Nations, Vodacom Western Province -ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division
- 2011 – Springboks – Castle Tri-Nations, DHL Stormers – Vodacom Super Rugby, DHL Western Province – ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division, Springboks – IRB Rugby World Cup 2011
- 2012 – DHL Stormers – Vodacom Super Rugby, DHL Western Province – ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division, Springboks – The Rugby Championship, Springboks – Castle Outgoing Tours
- 2013 – DHL Stormers – Vodacom Super Rugby, Springboks – Castle Lager Incoming Series, DHL Western Province – ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division, Springboks – The Rugby Championship
Name: Jean de Villiers:
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Jean de Villiers is a product of Paarl Gymnasium and the University of Stellenbosch (Maties).
He could be seen as the “Super Hero” in this team, he has done it all and seen it all and has quite a few jerseys to prove it. He has been loyal to Western Province since the start of his career in 2001, except for a brief stint with Munster in the 2009 / 2010 season. He represented Western Province and the Stormers on all levels. He has also represented South Africa on all levels and is the current Springbok captain. He was part of the South African Under 19, Under 21, Sevens and National squads. He was also part of the 2003, 2007 and 2011 World Cup squads. He has more than proven his worth in all teams. In 2005 and 2008 he was nominated for SA Player Of The Year, he was voted Player’s Player Of The Year in 2008 and to top it off he was also nominated for Super 14 Player Of The Year in 2008.
De Villiers is without doubt going to be starting at No 12 (inside centre) for the Stormers. If he has a great season like last year, this will be great for the Stormers, spectators and the Springboks. He is slowly heading to the end of his career now and it seems the Springbok coach wants to keep him until the next World Cup. So, let’s hope he can keep his form and fitness up till then.
His playing career is as follows:
- 1999 – South Africa – FIRA U19
- 2000 – South Africa – FIRA U19
- 2001 – Fedsure Western Province – Vodacom Cup, South Africa – SANZAR U21
- 2002 – Western Province – Vodacom Cup, South Africa – IRB U21 World Cup, Western Province – Bankfin Under 21, Investec Western Province – Bankfin Currie Cup, South Africa – Commonwealth Games Sevens, Springboks – Outgoing Tour
- 2003 – Investec WP – ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division, Springboks – Rugby World Cup Warm-ups
- 2004 – Western Province – ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division, Springboks – Vodacom Tri-Nations, Springboks – Vodacom Outgoing Tours
- 2005 – Springboks – Vodacom Outgoing Tours, Investec Stormers – Vodacom Super 12, Springboks – Vodacom Incoming Tours, Investec Western Province – ABSA Currie Cup Qualifying Round, Springboks – Vodacom Tri-Nations, Springboks – Nelson Mandela Challenge, Investec Western Province – ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division
- 2006 – Springboks – Vodacom Outgoing Tours, Springboks – Vodacom Tri-Nations, Vodacom Stormers – Vodacom Super 14, Springboks – Vodacom Incoming Tours
- 2007 – Springboks – Rugby World Cup warm-up matches, Vodacom Stormers – Vodacom Super 14, Springboks – Vodacom Incoming Tours, Springboks – Vodacom Tri-Nations, Springboks – IRB Rugby World Cup 2007
- 2008 – Vodacom Stormers – Vodacom Super 14, Springboks – Vodacom Incoming Tours, Vodacom WP – ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division, Springboks – Vodacom Tri-Nations, Springboks – Vodacom Outgoing Tour
- 2009 – Vodacom Stormers – Vodacom Super 14, Springboks – British & Irish Lions Tour, Springboks – Vodacom Tri-Nations, Springboks – Vodacom Outgoing Tours, Munster
- 2010 – Munster, Springboks – Vodacom Incoming Tours, Springboks – Vodacom Tri-Nations, Vodacom Western Province – ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division, Springboks – Outgoing Tours
- 2011 – Springboks – Castle Tri-Nations, DHL Stormers – Vodacom Super Rugby, DHL Western Province – ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division, Springboks – IRB Rugby World Cup 2011
- 2012 – DHL Stormers – Vodacom Super Rugby, Springboks – Castle Incoming Tours, DHL Western Province – ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division, Springboks – Castle Outgoing Tours
- 2013 – DHL Stormers – Vodacom Super Rugby, Springboks – Castle Lager Incoming Series, DHL Western Province – ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division, Springboks – The Rugby Championship, Springboks – Castle Lager Outgoing Tour, Barbarians vs Fiji
Name: Michael George “Michael” van der Spuy:
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Michael van der Spuy is a product of Truida Kestell Primary School, Grey College and Stellenbosch University (Maties).
He started his career in 2010 with Western Province at Under 19 level. He has gone on to represent them at Under 21, Vodacom Cup and Currie Cup levels.
Van der Spuy is most likely not going to see much game time, unless injuries occur. He finds himself in a squad with good talent and experience at centre and two of them are current Springboks as well. It would be good too see young players like Van der Spuy in action, but it is doubtfull that it will happen.
His playing career is as follows:
- 2010 – Western Province – ABSA Under 19 Competition
- 2011 – Vodacom Western Province – Vodacom Cup, Maties – Varsity Cup, DHL Western Province – ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division, Western Province – ABSA Under 21 Competition
- 2012 – DHL Western Province – Vodacom Cup, DHL Western Province – ABSA Under 21 Competition
- 2013 – DHL Western Province – Vodacom Cup, DHL Western Province – ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division
Name: Damian de Allende:
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Damian de Allende is a product of Milnerton Primary School and Milnerton High School.
He started his career in 2010 at Under 19 level for Western Province. He represented Western Province at Under 21 level in 2011 and then at Currie Cup Level in 2012, to find himself in the Super Rugby squad in 2013.
De Allende is a great talent and I can see green and gold in his future. He still needs another season or two to mature and with the right guidance and coaching could become a big name world rugby.
His playing career is as follows:
- 2010 – Western Province – ABSA Under 19 Competition
- 2011 – Western Province – ABSA Under 21 Competition
- 2012 – UCT – Varsity Cup, DHL Western Province – Vodacom Cup, DHL Western Province – ABSA Under 21 Competition, DHL Western Province – ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division
- 2013 – DHL Western Province – Vodacom Cup, DHL Stormers – Vodacom Super Rugby, DHL Western Province – ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division
Starters:
The Stormers does not have a shortage of quality centres. The big question however, is what the coaching staff will do iin their selections.
My pick would be to play Jean de Villiers at No 12 (inside centre) and Damian de Allende at No 13 (outside centre), with Juan de Jongh on the bench as an impact player with regular game time.
Rotation between these three players could keep them fresh and injury free, so this is a good combination for the Stormers.
Back Three:
Name: Gio Giaan “Gio” Aplon:
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Gio Aplon is a product of Hawston Primary School, Hawston High School and University of Stellenbosch (Maties).
He started his career in 2005 where he represented Western Province in the Vodacom Cup, he has remained loyal to Western Province and has represented them on all senior levels. He has been part of the Blitzbokke and made his debut for the Springboks in 2010 and was also voted SA Players Player in the same year.
Aplon is a very good player and is a huge crowd favourite. In my opinion he is one of the most illusive players too have ever played the game, he is known for pulling the rabbit out of the hat and with his extreme pace tends to cause quite a lot of problems for opposition defence. There is no doubt that he will be a regular starting player this season. With Jaco Taute however back to full fitness it will most likely be that Aplon will start on the wing and with the rumours of Aplon looking for an overseas contract, which could make this his last season in Cape Town, he will most likely go out to please the crowd and end his Stormers career with a bang.
His playing career is as follows:
- 2005 – Investec Western Province – Vodacom Cup, Investec Western Province – Provincial Amateur Competition, Investec Western Province – ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division
- 2006 – Vodacom Western Province – Vodacom Cup, Vodacom Western Province – ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division
- 2007 – Vodacom Stormers – Vodacom Super 14, Vodacom Western Province – Vodacom Cup, South Africa – IRB Sevens Series London and Scotland, Vodacom Western Province – ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division, Vodacom WP – ABSA Currie Cup Compulsory Friendlies
- 2008 – Vodacom Stormers – Vodacom Super 14, Vodacom WP – ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division, South Africa – IRB Sevens Series Dubai & George
- 2009 – South Africa – IRB Men’s Rugby World Cup Sevens, Vodacom Western Province – British & Irish Lions Tour, Vodacom Western Province – ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division
- 2010 – Springboks – Vodacom Incoming Tours, Vodacom Stormers – Vodacom Super 14, Springboks – Vodacom Tri-Nations, Vodacom Western Province – ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division, Springboks – Outgoing Tours
- 2011 – Springboks – Castle Tri-Nations, DHL Stormers – Vodacom Super Rugby, DHL Western Province – ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division, Springbboks – IRB Rugby World Cup 2011
- 2012 – DHL Stormers – Vodacom Super Rugby, Springboks – Castle Incoming Tours, DHL Western Province – ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division
- 2013 – Stormers – Vodacom Super Rugby, Springboks – Castle Lager Incoming Series, DHL Western Province – ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division, Springboks squad member – Castle Lager Outgoing Tour
Name: Patrick Benjamin “Pat” Howard:
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Pat Howard is a product of Cordwalles Primary School and Michaelhouse.
He started his career in 2009 when he represented KZN at Under 18 level he went on to represent KZN at Under 18 level in 2010 as well before making his move to Western Province in 2011. He has gone on to represent Western Province at Vodacom Cup and Currie Cup levels. He was also part of the Junior Springbok squad in 2012.
There has been a lot of hype made by the public regarding Pat Howard. Most people want him to play at centre and others at wing. Wing seems to be the favourite position. Howard finds himself in a team with 2 Springbok centres, so maybe wing is where he should make his stand and with Cheslin Kolbe on the injury list he could well see some serious game time. When all are fit and ready to go in the team it will be unlikely that he will see a lot of game time but he will get some game time from the bench but not enough to bee judged on. Let’s hope that he uses the time he gets to change the coach’s mind.
His playing career is as follows:
- 2005 – Kwa-Zulu Natal – U13 Coca Cola Craven Week
- 2009 – KZN – U18 Coca-Cola Craven Week
- 2010 – KZN – U18 Craven Week, South Africa – SA U18 High Performance
- 2011 – Western Province – ABSA Under 19 Competition
- 2012 – DHL Western Province – Vodacom Cup, South Africa – IRB Junior World Championship, DHL Western Province – ABSA Under 21 Competition, DHL Western Province – ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division
- 2013 – DHL Western Province – Vodacom Cup, DHL Western Province – ABSA Under 21 Competition, DHL Western Province – ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division
Name: Cheslin Kolbe:
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Cheslin Kolbe is a product of Simonsberg Primary School and Brackenfell High School.
He started his career in 2010 when he represented Western Province at Under 18 level. He has remained loyal to Western Province. He found himself part of the 2013 Super Rugby squad but was however not capped. He was part of the Junior Springbok squad in 2013 and has also represented South Africa at Sevens level.
Kolbe is a small illusive runner, much like Gio Aplon. He however punches way above his weight. Kolbe is still on the injury list for the 2014 season but will most likely slot back into the starting line-up as soon as he returns.
His playing career is as follows:
- 2009 – WP – U16 Grant Khomo
- 2010 – WP – U18 Craven Week
- 2011 – WP – U18 Craven Week
- 2012 – South Africa – HSBC Sevens World Series Glasgow & London, DHL Western Province – ABSA Under 19 Competition, DHL Western Province – ABSA Under 21 Competition, South Africa – HSBC Sevens World Series in South Africa
- 2013 – South Africa – HSBC Sevens World Series New Zealand, DHL Western Province – Vodacom Cup, South Africa – HSBC Sevens World Series USA, Stormers squad member – Vodacom Super Rugby, South Africa – IRB Junior World Championship, South Africa – IRB Rugby World Cup Sevens, DHL Western Province – ABSA Under 21 Competition, DHL Western Province – ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division, South Africa – HSBC Sevens World Series in Dubai and in South Africa
Name: Jacob Johannes “Jaco” Taute:
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Jaco Taute is a product of Selection Park Primary School, Monument High Shool and the University of Johannesburg (UJ).
He started his career in 2008 when he represented the Lions at Under 18 level. He has gone on from there to represent the Lions on all levels. He was also part of the Junior Springboks in 2010 and 2011. He made his debut for the Springboks in 2012 and has earned 4 caps. In 2013 he played Super Rugby on loan from the Liions, at the Stormers and was injured early in the season, which has kept him out of rugby for the rest of 2013.
Taute is a solid fullback and centre. With the Springboks battling at outside centre, he might consider moving there. This will be no easy task, as he has to compete with Juan de Jongh for that backup position, who is also a Springbok. Taute will most likely be the regular choice fullback in the DHL Stormers for 2014 and if no further injuries occur he could find himself back in the Springbok squad for the June Tests.
His playing career is as follows:
- 2007 – Valke – U16 Coca-Cola Grant Khomo Week
- 2008 – South Africa – U/18 Elite Squads, Lions – U18 Coca-Cola Craven Week, Golden Lions – ABSA Under 19 Competition
- 2009 – Xerox Lions – ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division, Lions – U18 Coca-Cola Craven Week, Lions – ABSA Under 19 Competition
- 2010 – Auto & General Lions – Vodacom Super 14, UJ – Varsity Cup, Golden Lions – Vodacom Cup, South Africa – IRB Junior World Championships, Lions – ABSA Currie Cup Compulsory Friendlies, Xerox Lions – ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division
- 2011 – MTN Lions – Vodacom Super Rugby, South Africa – IRB Junior World Championships, MTN Golden Lions – ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division
- 2012 – MTN Lions – Vodacom Super Rugby, MTN Golden Lions – ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division, Springboks – The Rugby Championship, Springboks – Castle Outgoing Tours
- 2013 – Stormers – Vodacom Super Rugby
Name: Scott Alexander “Scott” van Breda:
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Scott van Breda is a product of Rondebosch Boys High School and EP Academy.
He started his career in 2011 at Under 21 level for Eastern Province. He has gone on the represent Eastern Province on all levels and now finds himself at the Stormers for the 2014 Super Rugby season.
Scott van Breda is difficult to place in this squad. It seems that his inclusion is as backup fullback only and it is unlikely that he will see to much game time. If given the chance however, he could grab the chance with both hands.
His playing career is as follows:
- 2011 – Eastern Province – ABSA Under 21 Competition
- 2012 – Eastern Province Kings – Vodacom Cup, Eastern Province Kings – ABSA Currie Cup First Division, Eastern Province Kings – ABSA Under 21 Competition, Eastern Province Kings – ABSA Currie Cup Promotion / Relegation, EP Kings – ABSA Under 21 Promotion / Relegation
- 2013 – Eastern Province Kings – Vodacom Cup, Southern Kings – Vodacom Super Rugby, Eastern Province Kings – ABSA Currie Cup First Division, Southern Kings – Super Rugby Promotion / Relegation
Name: Ederies Arendse:
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Ederies Arendse is a product of West End Primary School, Aloe High School and False Bay College.
He started his career in 2008 when he represented Western Province at Under 21 level. In 2009 he represented the Valke in the Currie Cup. He found himself back at Western Province in 2011 and has gone on to represent them at Vodacom Cup and Currie Cup levels.
Ederies Arendse will be last in the pecking order of the wings at DHL Stormers and his call-up, if at all, is most likely going to be just as cover in case a few injuries are picked up.
His playing career is as follows:
- 2008 – Vodacom WP – ABSA Under 21 Competition
- 2009 – Valke – ABSA Currie Cup Compulsory Friendlies, Valke – ABSA Currie Cup First Division
- 2011 – DHL Western Province – ABSA Currie Cup Compulsory Friendlies
- 2012 – DHL Western Province – Vodacom Cup, DHL Western Province – ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division
- 2013 – DHL western Province – Vodacom Cup, DHL Western Province – ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division
Name: Johan Christiaan “Joe” Pietersen:
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Joe Pietersen is a product of Suid-Natal Primary School, Grey College and the University of Stellenboch (Maties).
He started his career in 2003 where he represented Western Province at Under 20 level. He has gone on from there to represent Western Province and the Stormers on all levels. He was also part of the Blitzbokke squad a few times and received a Springbok call-up in 2012, but was never capped.
Pietersen is not part of the initial squad and is still at Biarritz but if the Stormers pick up some early season injuries, he could ask to return to South Africa to fill that void. He is a solid fullback and has a good goal kicking record. He also possesses a good right boot.
His playing career is as follows:
- 2003 – Investec WP – ABSA U20 A Section
- 2004 – Western Province – ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division, Investec Western Province – ABSA U20 Competition Section A, South Africa – Emirates Airline Dubai Rugby Sevens and Emirates Airline George Rugby Sevens
- 2005 – Investec Wetsern Province – Vodacom Cup, Investec Western Province – ABSA Currie Cup Qualifying Round
- 2006 – Vodacom Stormers – Vodacom Super 14, Vodacom Western Province – Vodacom Cup, Vodacom Western Province – ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division
- 2007 – Vodacom Stormers – Vodacom Super 14, Vodacom Western Province – Vodacom Cup, Vodacom Western Province – ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division
- 2008 – Vodacom Stormers – Vodacom Super 14, Maties – Varsity Cup, Vodacom Western Province – ABSA Currie Cup Compulsory Friendlies, Vodacom WP – ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division
- 2009 – Vodacom WP – MTN test, Western Province – Vodacom Cup, Vodacom Stormers – Vodacom Super 14, Vodacom Western Province – British & Irish Lions Tour, Vodacom Western Province – ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division
- 2010 – Vodacom Stormers – Vodacom Super 14, Bayonne
- 2011 – Bayonne
- 2012 – DHL Stormers – Vodacom Super Rugby, Springbok squad member – Castle Incoming Tours, DHL Western Provine – ABSA Currie Cup Premier Division
- 2013 – Stormers – Vodacom Super Rugby, Biarritz
Starters:
Every article I have done on the Stormers squad contenders raises more questions than answers. At some stages it seems as if the coaching staff has thrown a number of names into a hat and just drawn the names randomly.
The starting combinations are going to vital and there are few combinations who have had time together. The obvious choice for a starting Back Three in Kolbe’s absence would be to play Pat Howard at No 11 (left wing), Gio Aplon at No 14 (right wing) and Jaco Taute at Fullback. We can also expect to see Damian dDe Allende slotting into wing at times.
The starting line-up will be very interesting. I still stand with my point that the Stormers coaching staff will have their hands full in picking a proper match day squad.