Malherbe takes Stormers’ reins

The Stormers have appointed a new captain in prop Frans Malherbe (left) to take the reins for their Super Rugby match against the Cheetahs in Bloemfontein tomorrow.

While it seems like a surprise move by coach Robbie Fleck, it was necessitated by the absence of Boks pair Siya Kolisi and Eben Etzebeth.

Fleck decided to rest regular skipper Kolisi as well as Etzebeth, who captained the Boks the first time last weekend against France at Ellis Park in the absence of the injured Warren Whiteley.

In Kolisi’s absence the Stormers however welcome back Rynhardt Elstadt to the side after a lengthy layoff, while Chris van Zyl takes Etzebeth’s place in the second row to combine with Bok lock Pieter-Steph du Toit.

In a significant move Bok prop Steven Kitshoff has been named on the bench and he will be in line to make his first appearance for the Stormers since 2015 since returning from France. Kitshoff, however, might not be eligible for the play-offs.

SP Marais, Cheslin Kolbe, Juan de Jongh, Shaun Treeby, Dillyn Leyds, Damian Willemse, Jano Vermaak, Nizaam Carr, Kobus van Dyk, Rynhardt Elstadt, Pieter-Steph du Toit, Chris van Zyl, Frans Malherbe (capt), Ramone Samuels, JC Janse van Rensburg. Bench: Bongi Mbonambi, Steven Kitshoff, Wilco Louw, JD Schickerling, Sikhumbuzo Notshe, Justin Phillips, EW Viljoen, Seabelo Senatla.