Overview
- The Stormers dropped to third in the United Rugby Championship after a draw with Ulster and a loss to Cardiff on their UK tour, costing them a shot at finishing top of the standings.
- Ruhan Nel and Seabelo Senatla have returned to fitness and are available for selection, with coach John Dobson saying Nel strengthens the defence and Senatla will lift the crowd.
- Cobus Reinach remains a long‑term injury absentee and will not be available for the quarter‑final.
- Dobson has shifted the tone from dejection to positivity and is focusing on defence and detail as the team prepares to face Cardiff again at Cape Town Stadium.
- The Stormers expect natural grass and a packed home crowd to suit their game after struggling on artificial 4G surfaces, and reversing a late‑season dip that saw them win only four of their last ten league games is now urgent.