The Cheetahs are out to spoil the Stormers’ homecoming party in their preparation series clash at Cape Town Stadium tomorrow at 5.15pm.
With the match being the first at the Capetonians’ new home after moving from Newlands at the end of the Currie Cup season, the Cheetahs have selected their strongest possible side for the clash – including bringing back veteran Ruan Pienaar, who returns to the bench after a long layoff because of a knee injury.
Losing their PRO14 spot, with only the Stormers, Sharks, Bulls and the Lions taking part in the Rainbow Cup starting in April, the Cheetahs have an appeltjie to skil with their competitors in South Africa, starting with tomorrow’s match.
Of playing the first match at Cape Town Stadium since the Stormers’ move, Pienaar, 36, tells OFM: “Personally I would have liked to have had one more shot at Newlands.
“I’m not a Stormers supporter at all, but there was something very special about Newlands.
“It’s sad to see that Newlands won’t be used anymore, but it’s a great opportunity to play in another great stadium.
“Everyone is excited to see what it’s like to play there and it would have been great to have a few fans there to add to the atmosphere.
“Everyone is excited to get going again and starting the new journey together with the Stormers at their new home.”
While the Cheetahs have an experienced side, the Stormers have selected a squad of players who have not played much in the Currie Cup and Super Rugby Unlocked tournaments.
And with a first win at their new home base up for grabs, the Capetonians will be out to defend their turf against a team that is out to defend their honour after being overlooked for European competition by the guys at the South African Rugby Union.