Feinberg-Mngomezulu Returns to Lead Stormers in Champions Cup Clash Against La Rochelle
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The DHL Stormers are banking on the immediate impact of flyhalf Sacha feinberg-Mngomezulu as they prepare to face Stade Rochelais in a crucial investec Champions Cup match in Gqeberha on Saturday. The team’s declaration signals a clear intent to build on recent momentum against a formidable opponent boasting notable international experience.
The 23-year-old playmaker’s return to the No. 10 jersey is the centerpiece of a lineup featuring nine Springboks, a testament to the Stormers’ ambition for a strong performance at Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium.According to a team spokesperson, the selection reflects a desire for “direction, spark adn kicking control” against the two-time European champions.
Feinberg-Mngomezulu will be key to unlocking the stormers’ attacking potential, and the team will look to exploit opportunities created by the dynamic backline.
Forward Pack Anchored by Test-Level Strength
Up front, the Stormers are prioritizing continuity and power. Evan Roos earns a starting spot after making a positive impact off the bench in France, joining forces wiht Ben-Jason Dixon and paul de Villiers in a dynamic loose trio. Captain Salmaan Moerat will lead the pack alongside JD Schickerling in the second row, while the front row features Ntuthuko Mchunu, André-Hugo Venter, and Neethling Fouché.
Depth on the Bench Provides Tactical Flexibility
The Stormers’ bench is equally impressive, offering a wealth of options for coach John Dobson. Replacements include JJ Kotzé, Oli Kebble, Sazi Sandi, Connor Evans, Ruan Ackermann, Marcel Theunissen, Imad Khan, and Wandisile Simelane, all of whom have demonstrated their capabilities in recent matches.
Building on Away Win, Expecting Intense Battle
Dobson emphasized the importance of building on last week’s away victory, stating, “It was great to win away from home, but we have to back that up now and we know that it will take a big effort against a highly physical Stade Rochelais team.” He also highlighted the crucial role of home support, adding, “We always get such fantastic support in Gqeberha, so we are all looking forward to what should be a big match with Test match intensity.”
STORMERS – 15 Warrick gelant, 14 Dylan Maart, 13 Ruhan Nel, 12 Jonathan Roche, 11 Leolin Zas, 10 Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu, 9 Cobus Reinach, 8 Evan Roos, 7 Ben-Jason Dixon, 6 Paul de Villiers, 5 JD Schickerling, 4 Salmaan Moerat (c), 3 Neethling Fouché, 2 André-Hugo Venter, 1 ntuthuko Mchunu. Bench: 16 JJ Kotzé, 17 Oli Kebble, 18 Sazi Sandi, 19 Connor Evans, 20 Ruan Ackermann, 21 Marcel Theunissen, 22 Imad Khan, 23 Wandisile Simelane.
The team shared their lineup announcement on X/Twitter: https://t.co/AwQYvSaNMb
Ticket information is available here: https://t.co/3aJrMeqsuY
With a potent mix of experience and youthful energy, the stormers are poised to deliver a compelling performance against Stade Rochelais, aiming to solidify their position in the Investec Champions Cup.
