The Stormers begin their 2026/27 United Rugby Championship campaign on Friday night against Connacht at Dexcom Stadium, Galway (20:45 SAST). For John Dobson’s charges, this is more than just an opener — it’s a chance to avenge recent defeats to Connacht and set the tone for a season where Project 2029 must begin to show results.
Why the Opener Matters
A victory in Galway would do wonders for the Stormers’ campaign. It would break Connacht’s recent hold over them, inject confidence into a squad strengthened by major signings, and set up Cape Town perfectly for their home run at DHL Stadium. Dobson has made it clear: the goal is a home knockout match this season, a stepping stone toward placing the Stormers at the top table of world rugby.
Player Milestones
- Leolin Zas: Marks his 100th Stormers cap, a career defined by pace and finishing power since debuting in 2016.
- Ben-Jason Dixon: Returns from concussion, aiming to re-establish himself as a cornerstone of the loose trio.
- Mack Hansen: Connacht’s star winger makes his comeback after 11 months out, adding firepower to their backline.
- Paul Boyle: Leads Connacht from No. 8, bringing leadership and consistency.
- Ruhan Nel: Captains the Stormers midfield, a steadying influence in high-pressure fixtures.
Season Forecast — Project 2029 in Action
This season must prove that Project 2029 is more than a vision:
- Home knockout ambition: Securing playoff rugby at DHL Stadium would validate recruitment and consistency.
- Squad depth: Rotation across URC and Champions Cup fixtures without losing quality will be a litmus test.
- Impact signings: Cheslin Kolbe, Siya Kolisi, and Wilco Louw must elevate the squad’s dominance.
- Youth integration: Academy graduates must be trusted in meaningful minutes, proving the pipeline is working.
- Global competitiveness: Champions Cup performances will show if the Stormers can truly challenge Europe’s elite.
Matchday Squads
Stormers XV
- Vernon Matongo
- André-Hugo Venter
- Neethling Fouché
- Riley Norton
- JD Schickerling
- Evan Roos
- Louw Nel
- Hacjivah Dayimani
- Andre Warner
- Jurie Matthee
- Leolin Zas (100th cap)
- Jonathan Roche
- Ruhan Nel (captain)
- Seabelo Senatla
- Warrick Gelant
Replacements: Vernon Paulo, Olly Reid, Sazi Sandi, Connor Evans, Adré Smith, Marcel Theunissen, Ezekiel Ngobeni, Yaqeen Ahmed
Connacht XV
- Francois van Wyk (debut)
- Eoin de Buitléar
- Finlay Bealham
- Niall Murray
- Josh Murphy
- Sean O’Brien
- Shamus Hurley-Langton
- Paul Boyle (captain)
- Ben Murphy
- Josh Ioane
- Finn Treacy
- Cathal Forde
- John Devine
- Mack Hansen
- Sam Gilbert
Replacements: Matthew Victory, Jordan Duggan, Fiachna Barrett, David O’Connor, Max Flynn (debut), Caolin Blade, Sean Naughton, Shayne Bolton