The Stormers will host the Bulls for the last time in a Super Rugby clash at Newlands on Saturday. (5.15pm).
For this historic encounter, coach John Dobson was forced to make two changes to his starting line-up and also select a new captain – Steven Kitshoff.
Regular skipper Siya Kolisi, who injured his knee in the 27-0 win over the Hurricanes last weekend, makes way for the younger brother of Pieter-Steph du Toit, Johan, at the back of the scrum.
And while it will be a memorable moment for the two brothers, it will also be a special day for prop Frans Malherbe, who will play in his 100th match for the franchise.
CENTURION: Frans Malherbe. Picture: Ryan Wilkisky/BackpagePix
Sharing the occasion with Malherbe in the front row will be hooker Scarra Ntubeni, who comes in for Bongi Mbonambi in the other change to the starting XV.
To the bench and the Stormers will be boosted by the return to fitness of loose forwards Cobus Wiese and Juarno Augustus, who will be joined by flyhalf Jean-Luc du Plessis and hooker Chad Solomon as the fresh faces.
Coach John Dobson, meanwhile, knows how big this game is to all who have been involved in the north-south derby at the home of Cape rugby over the years.
The coach says: “This will be the last north-south Super Rugby derby at Newlands, so it will be another piece of history for the rugby-mad people of this region.
“The atmosphere at Newlands last week was incredible and we are looking forward to another opportunity to play in front of our supporters in a big derby, we are determined to make the most of what will be another great opportunity.”
UP FRONT: Ace Scarra Ntubeni. Ryan Wilkisky/BackpagePix
Despite caning the Hurricanes 27-0, Dobson says his team had to improve on their performance if they want to get the better of their fierce rivals.
He adds: “We know there are some areas in which we can make a step up and we are expecting a hugely physical challenge on Saturday, so we cannot afford to lose focus.”