Veteran prop Oli Kebble believes the Stormers XXIII’s horror run of results against Griquas will have no bearing on Friday night’s Currie Cup opener at Cape Town Stadium.
The hosts head into the clash looking to snap an eight-match losing streak (when playing as Western Province) against the men from Kimberley.
“We aren’t concerned about it,” Kebble said. “This is a brand-new team that has come together over the last month and a half, and is building towards something special.
“We realise Griquas have performed well over the past few years, but there couldn’t be greater motivation for us than representing the Stormers at our home ground. That’s all the motivation we need.”
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The Scotland international, one of several senior players in the Stormers XXIII squad, says the Cape side is determined to honour one of rugby’s biggest brands as they begin a new era in the competition.
“We’re not here just to take part. We want to do well and hopefully go deep into the competition,” Kebble said.
He also believes the blend of youth and experience in the squad will be a major asset throughout the campaign.
“We see this as an opportunity to bring players through, give others game time and play good rugby.
“Some of the older guys need game time and need to show they belong in the URC squad.
“We also can’t wait to see how some of the younger players perform on Friday.”
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Meanwhile, Netwerk24 reports that coach Tom Dawson-Squibb has sent an SOS call to veteran hooker Scarra Ntubeni.
The 35-year-old announced his retirement and played his last match for the Stormers against Connacht towards the back-end of the Vodacom URC season.
But reported injuries to Lukhanyo Vokozela and Luca Bakkes has necessitated Ntubeni’s call-up.
Find out more about DHL Stormers XXIII Head Coach Tom Dawson-Squibb, the path he has already walked with us, and what to expect from his team in the Carling Currie Cup.
Watch the full profile on Stormers TV
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— DHL Stormers (@THESTORMERS) July 14, 2026
Photo: Ashley Vlotman/Gallo Images
The post Stormers XXIII out to end losing streak appeared first on SA Rugby magazine.
Veteran prop Oli Kebble believes the Stormers XXIII’s horror-run of results against Griquas, will have no bearing on Friday night’s Currie Cup opener at Cape Town Stadium.
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