Stormers XXIII clash against Seawolves gives fringe players chance to impress URC coaches
RUGBY
Stormers prop Oli Kebble will make his return from injury on Sunday when he runs out for the Stormers XXIII in their first-ever match.
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The newly formed Stormers XXIII side will make its debut on Sunday in a friendly against the Seattle Seawolves at DHL Stadium, and veteran prop Oli Kebble is eager to take pride in the historic occasion.
The former Scottish international is returning to action following injury and hopes the game time will help him and several others work their way back into the Stormers setup as the United Rugby Championship (URC) and European Champions Cup play-offs approach.
Kebble, exciting loose forward Keke Morabe, veteran utility back Jean-Luc du Plessis and flanker Divan Fuller are among the injured players finally returning to the field, while regular Stormers players Jurie Matthee, Suleiman Hartzenberg and Jonathan Roche will also get valuable game time.
According to Kebble, it will be a great opportunity for several players to showcase what they can do.
“Keke came back from a serious long-term injury, he is an unbelievable athlete and I am excited to see him go,” the prop said.
“JL (Jean-Luc) is coming back from injury and then a lot of U20s are getting their first shot. For the fringe guys, it will be important to play well and represent the Stormers to try and put yourself back in the senior squad.
“This weekend’s opportunity is one that I have to take to put my hand up for selection again.”
Kebble (33) is returning from a chronic ankle injury and says he may require surgery later on. For now, he is focused on contributing to the Stormers both on and off the field.
He is encouraged by the young props coming through the ranks and, while he continues to scrum against them in training, he also takes on a mentoring role for the likes of Vernon Matongo, Zachary Porthen, Sazi Sandi, Olly Reid and Herman Lubbe.
“On my side of the scrum, Vern is already stating his claim, and he is a very exciting talent. Having worked with Ollie Reid now, I think he is a great prospect for the future. I don’t know how much I can offer in terms of help, but what I am trying to do is lend a hand where I can and maybe offer advice.
“However, I also don’t want to get in the way of their development.”
Stormers XXIII: 15 JC Mars, 14 Suleiman Hartzenberg, 13 Josh Boulle, 12 Jonathan Roche, 11 Joel Leotlela, 10 Jurie Matthee, 9 Dewaldt Duvenage, 8 Keke Morabe, 7 Divan Fuller, 6 Louw Nel, 5 Gary Porter, 4 Connor Evans, 3 Herman Lubbe, 2 Lukhanyo Vokozela, 1 Oli Kebble; Replacements: 16 Luca Bakkes, 17 Olly Reid, 18 Hencus van Wyk, 19 Vernon Paulo, 20 Tom Barnard, 21 Reuben Kruger, 22 Torren February, 23 Adeeb Borraine, 24 Jean-Luc du Plessis, 25 Luke Burger, 26 Bruce Sherwood, 27 Mfundo Ndhlovu