Leinster and Stormers are set to face off in what promises to be an exciting encounter as the two teams top their respective conferences in the ongoing rugby season. Both teams look strong and are likely to put up a stiff fight to claim top spot. As anticipation builds, Leinster has announced a change to their team, while Stormers welcome back key players who have been with the South African national team. In this article, we will take a closer look at the latest developments and what they could mean for the upcoming game.
Leinster rugby team will face the DHL Stormers at the RDS Arena on Friday night in a much-awaited match. Leinster has made just one change with Rob Russell replacing the injured Jamie Osborne from their previous win over Edinburgh earlier this month. Ciarán Frawley has moved from full-back to inside centre, while Jordan Larmour will shift from the wing to the no.15 jersey. Harry Byrne and Luke McGrath will continue their partnership at half-back, and the pack remains unchanged with Rhys Ruddock captaining the team. Ed Byrne is set for his first appearance since 2023 off the bench as he returns from a knee injury while Vakhtang Abdaladze and Ben Brownlee have also been added to the replacements.
On the other hand, John Dobson’s DHL Stormers will bring a strong line-up, with captain Steven Kitshoff, Frans Malherbe, Marvin Orie, and Damian Willemse all making their returns for the table-topping encounter. Paul de Wet will partner with Manie Libbok at half-back, with Herschel Jantjies and Jean-Luc du Plessis on the replacements bench. John Dobson has highlighted that he is looking forward to seeing the returning players in a game that will be considered tough away from home. Referee Sam Grove-White [SRU] will officiate the game.
As the stage is set for the table-topping clash between Leinster and Stormers, it’s safe to say that rugby fans across the globe are eagerly anticipating this high-stakes encounter. While Leinster may have made only one change to their squad, they will need to bring their A-game against a threatening Stormers side that has welcomed back its Boks. With both teams boasting impressive records this season, this game promises to be a spectacle of top-class rugby, with players from both sides vying for a crucial victory. This match-up is one that is not to be missed, and we can’t wait to see it unfold!
