The Champions Cup last 16 clash between the DHL Stormers and La Rochelle in Cape Town on Saturday will be an epic duel of Test-match quality, writes MARK KEOHANE.

Writing for TimesLIVE, Keohane also highlights the Stormers’ enterprising style of play and stars like Damian Willemse, who epitomises their flair and supporter appeal.

Under the guidance of John Dobson, Keohane argues that the Stormers have consistently attracted record crowds to Cape Town Stadium, showcasing a resurgence in post-lockdown fan enthusiasm for live rugby.

Keohane emphasises the Stormers’ thrilling victory against La Rochelle in December as evidence of their potential to compete against top international outfits.

“The Stormers will host a World XV in Cape Town next weekend. The quality of La Rochelle is the equal of a Test team,” Keohane writes.

“For those who need a reminder: La Rochelle started with 13 Test players, with eight of them French internationals. They also had a French and Argentinean Test prop among the substitutes and the incredible Fijian flanker Levani Botia.

“This same World XV are back in Cape Town next Saturday. It is going to be spectacular.”

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He acknowledges that Dobson’s recent appointment as director of rugby is a significant move, signaling the team’s ambition to become the best rugby club globally, endorsed by their new owners, the Red Disa Consortium.

“The Stormers appeal at the DHL Stadium is consistent with the Stormers crowd numbers when they played Super Rugby at Newlands,” Keohane writes.

“The venue is not what seduces the Stormers fans. It is the Stormers style of play and those players bringing to life Dobson’s approach to the game.”

Photo: Ryan Wilkisky/BackpagePix

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