Taute has what Stormers need

FORMER Springbok Jaco Taute will make his first appearance for the Stormers this season when he starts at fullback against the Rebels in Melbourne on Saturday. After an injury-plagued career‚ Taute came through several Currie Cup matches at centre in June and will take over the No 15 jersey from Cheslin Kolbe‚ who is with the Blitzboks.

Stormers coach Robbie Fleck said Taute’s experience is what swung the decision in his favour.

“The fullback position has been a concern because we knew Cheslin was leaving‚” Fleck said from Melbourne. “With all the injuries we’ve had we had to dig deep and see who was available. There are some good youngsters coming through but we needed experience considering our young backline.

“What this team needs right now is leadership and confidence and Jaco brings that.

“Scott van Breda has been brought on tour as fullback cover and is on the bench. Jaco originally came to us from the Lions as a fullback and he played some of his best rugby in that position. He’s had a lot of injuries since then but he had worked incredibly hard to get back to where he is.”

Fleck went for a six-two split between backs and forwards as he reshuffled his team from the side that beat the Cheetahs 31-24 in late May.

“The six-two split is part of our plan‚” Fleck said. “The Rebels are an all-round side and have some decent ball carriers. We have some other reasons why we went for the split we did.” TMG Sport