The DHL Stormers have undergone a significant transformation in recent weeks, moving from a team struggling with injuries to one that has regained its confidence and strength. Their emphatic 40-0 victory over Sale Sharks in the Investec Champions Cup was a stark contrast to the heavy defeat they suffered against Harlequins in their previous outing. While that loss was difficult, it may have played a crucial role in shaping the team’s progress.

When the Stormers traveled to England in December, they were far from full strength, with numerous senior players sidelined due to injury. As a result, the team that faced Harlequins was not just a second-string side—it was closer to a third or fourth-choice lineup. However, that experience gave young and fringe players valuable exposure to high-level competition, and those lessons were evident in their dominant display against Sale.

With several key players returning to the fold, the squad that took the field at DHL Stadium looked far more settled and cohesive. Coach John Dobson continued to rotate and experiment with his selections, but this time, there was a blend of experience and youthful promise that produced a balanced and clinical performance.

Young Talent Stepping Up

One of the most exciting aspects of the Stormers’ recent matches has been the emergence of promising young players. The defeat against Harlequins marked the debut of Jonathan Roche, who made a late cameo appearance. Despite limited time on the field, he showcased his potential, particularly in the try scored by JC Mars, which added a silver lining to an otherwise difficult game.

Fast forward to the victory over Sale, and Roche was no longer just a late-game substitute—he was in the starting lineup and looked every bit a player ready for this level. Dobson himself acknowledged being pleasantly surprised by the rapid progress of the 21-year-old, stating,
“A year ago, Jonathan was playing Varsity Cup, and now he’s stepping up at this level. I’ll admit I wasn’t initially convinced, but he’s proved me wrong, and that’s exciting for us.”

Alongside Roche, Wandisile Simelane and Stefan Ungerer also gained valuable game time, reinforcing the importance of giving emerging players opportunities to grow within a strong squad environment. Simelane, in particular, has been regaining his form, showing flashes of his attacking brilliance in both the Harlequins and Sale matches.

Competition in the Midfield

The resurgence of Wandisile Simelane has created an interesting selection dilemma for the Stormers’ coaching staff. The former Junior Springbok has steadily improved his defensive work while rediscovering his attacking instincts, making him a genuine contender for the outside centre position.

However, Suleiman Hartzenberg is also pushing for a role in the No. 13 jersey. While he excelled on the wing against Sale, his long-term ambition is to transition into the midfield. The Stormers see him as their future in that position, but with Simelane hitting form and Ruhan Nel returning from injury, the competition is heating up.

Dobson is aware of the selection challenges this poses, especially with Dan du Plessis also close to full fitness. Speaking about the depth in midfield, he admitted,
“It’s a great problem to have. Ruhan is back next week, Dan won’t be far behind, and now we have Jonathan and Wandisile making strong cases for themselves. We’ll have some big decisions to make.”

A New Approach to Squad Rotation

One of the key lessons learned from the Harlequins defeat is that exposing younger players to top-level competition is vital, but doing so within a stable, experienced lineup is more beneficial. Dobson hinted that the Stormers might rethink their approach when fielding understrength teams, ensuring that newcomers are introduced into a more settled side rather than being thrown into a match with too many inexperienced teammates.

“We’re considering adjusting our policy because we’ve seen that younger players perform better when they are surrounded by experienced heads. The Sale match was proof of that, and it’s something we’ll take forward,” Dobson explained.

Crucial Weeks Ahead

The next challenge for the Stormers comes in the form of a Champions Cup clash against Racing 92 in Paris. While advancing to the knockout stages was not seen as a realistic goal after an early home defeat to Toulon, their strong showing against Sale has kept their hopes alive.

The match against Racing is an important opportunity, but the coaching staff is keeping one eye on an even bigger fixture—a United Rugby Championship showdown with Leinster in Dublin the following week. The timing of this match, just before the start of the Six Nations, presents an opportunity to face a Leinster team that may be missing key international players.

“The Leinster game is massive for us,” Dobson admitted. “We’ve drawn in Dublin before, but this will be our first match at the Aviva Stadium, and we’re excited for the challenge.”

Although the Stormers are expected to give their best effort against Racing 92, Dobson has hinted that the selection strategy may be similar to what was used against Sale—balancing key returnees with emerging players to maximize both development and performance.

Squad Depth Strengthens as Players Return

One of the most encouraging signs for the Stormers is the growing list of returning players. Several influential figures are set to be available soon, adding further depth and options to the squad.

Among those set to rejoin the team in the coming weeks are:
✔ Ruhan Nel – Expected to return next week
✔ Seabelo Senatla – Available for selection soon
✔ Leolin Zas – Set to rejoin training

Additionally, Evan Roos made his return against Sale, providing a boost to the back row, while Ben-Jason Dixon was only rested and remains a key part of the squad.

The medical team is also closely monitoring Damian Willemse and Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu. Willemse has started running again as he recovers from a groin injury, with hopes of returning by March, while Feinberg-Mngomezulu could be available in time for the highly anticipated north-south derby against the Bulls on February 8.

Just a month ago, the Stormers were struggling with injuries, forcing them to field an understrength side that fell to Harlequins. Now, with star players returning and emerging talents stepping up, the team looks far more balanced, competitive, and dangerous.

With key fixtures ahead in both the Champions Cup and URC, the depth being built now will prove crucial in maintaining consistency and challenging for top honours. The pieces are falling into place, and the Stormers are entering a crucial phase of the season with renewed confidence and growing momentum.