The Stormers XXIII will give their firebrand fullback Dylan Miller until the last minute to prove his fitness ahead of Saturday’s Currie Cup clash against the Pumas at Mbombela Stadium, reports MORNÉ ESBEN.
Miller has been included in the starting lineup but is carrying a niggle, with coach Tom Dawson-Squibb confirming that they will make a late call on whether or not he will be on the plane to Mbombela.
“Dylan is still available. He’s just got a bit of a niggle but I’m hoping he comes through. He wants to play so we’ll be making a late call on him,” said Dawson-Squibb.
The Junior Springbok – who was part of that successful title defence in Georgia last month – has started every match for the Stormers XXIII in the Currie Cup so far, and has caught the eye with his darting runs and educated left boot.
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The Cape side features five changes to their starting lineup for the clash.
Four of those changes come in the forward pack, with props Mhleli Khuzwayo and Herman Lubbe, as well as loose forwards Wandile Mlaba and Keke Morabe, coming into the starting XV.
There is one change among the backs, with Joel Leotlela set to make his first appearance of the season on the wing.
Leotlela replaces Suleiman Hartzenberg, who suffered a minor injury against the Cheetahs at Athlone Stadium on Sunday.
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Dawson-Squibb confirmed Hartzenberg is expected to be sidelined for a week.
“Suleiman’s got something I can’t pronounce that comes through the medicals, but it’s a one-week injury. In layman’s terms, it’s bruising in the rib area,” he said.
While the Stormers XXIII will have to contend with the late fitness call on Miller, Dawson-Squibb is confident in the group heading into what promises to be a challenging encounter against the Pumas.
“Like with any team, your strength can be your weakness. If they execute well, they are really strong but also if they don’t execute well, then that gives us opportunity,” he said.
“They might have some surprises, but we know what they’re trying to do. Their model is clear, but I think there are one or two things we’ll look at.”
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Dawson-Squibb also believes his young chargers are continuing to make progress, with the squad relishing the opportunity to test themselves in Mbombela.
“I’m super confident in our team, in the way we train and the growth we’ve shown every week,” he said.
“I can sense the energy – the guys are fizzed to get on that plane.”
Photo: Shaun Roy/Gallo Images
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The Stormers XXIII will give their firebrand fullback Dylan Miller until the last minute to prove his fitness ahead of Saturday’s Currie Cup clash against the Pumas at Mbombela Stadium,
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