Damian Willemse Adds Versatility in Stormers’ Champions Cup Clash

Manie Libbok is set to mark a significant milestone, playing his 50th game for the Stormers in the upcoming Champions Cup clash against Stade Francais in Paris. The Round Four encounter at the Stade Jean Bouin holds crucial implications as the Stormers aim to secure their place in the Round of 16.

Libbok’s journey reaches a notable landmark in just his third season with the Stormers, and his experience will be pivotal in marshalling a backline that sees some strategic changes. Notably, Damian Willemse makes a move to the midfield, prompting Dan du Plessis to shift to outside centre.

Coach John Dobson expressed admiration for Libbok’s growth, highlighting his significant contributions to the team since joining in 2021. “Manie has been a revelation for us and he seems to get better and better. Hopefully, he keeps going from strength to strength in a Stormers jersey,” said Dobson.

The back three undergoes a transformation with Warrick Gelant taking the fullback position and forming an all-new combination with wings Angelo Davids and Ben Loader. Suleiman Hartzenberg and scrumhalf Stefan Ungerer are poised among the replacements.

In the starting pack, hooker Joseph Dweba, flank Willie Engelbrecht, and No.8 Keke Morabe step in, representing the only changes. Prop Kwenzo Blose and lock Hendre Stassen are notable names on the replacements bench, complemented by the versatility of hooker Andre-Hugo Venter, utility forward Ben-Jason Dixon, and dynamic loose forward Hacjivah Dayimani.

Dobson acknowledged the challenging conditions and tough opposition faced by the Stormers in Paris, emphasizing the team’s need to perform away from home to contend for a spot in the knockout phase of the competition.

The Stormers’ lineup reflects a blend of experience and strategic adjustments, with the versatile Damian Willemse adding a new dimension to the midfield. As the team strives for success in the Champions Cup, the milestone moment for Manie Libbok becomes a focal point in their journey towards the Round of 16.