Seabelo Senatla has spoken of renewed hope and attacking ambition for the Stormers ahead of their Vodacom URC opener against Leinster in Cape Town on Friday night.
Senatla believes this season could see a Stormers attack more dynamic than many remember, saying the squad has worked hard on new ideas during pre‑season and placed emphasises on the trust in their preparation, fitness, and execution.
STORMERS SET FOR “EXPLOSIVE” CAMPAIGN
Asked to described the Stormers’ attacking philosophy in one word, Senatla said “explosive”. He went on to explain how hard they have worked for weeks to implement new patterns and ideas.
“We have some beautiful plans,” he told reporters. The focus, he added, is now on fitness and execution.
Senatla pointed out that match action already sharpened the team ahead of full URC intensity. He played for Western Province in the Currie Cup final round versus Boland.
He also scored twice in the Stormers’ warm‑up against the Sharks in George, which is encouraging
“The fruits we’re seeing already is really satisfying,” Senatla noted.
Beginning their URC campaign with two home fixtures at Cape Town Stadium gives the Stormers a platform.
“We’ve been synonymous with slow starts, but we’re trying to change that,” Senatla said.
He believes having support from The Faithful helps. With defending champions Leinster first, this is an opportunity. The Stormers want to make every home match count before their European tour.
SQUAD DEPTH AND MISSING PIECES
Stormers will miss several key players in the opening rounds. Damian Willemse, Sacha Feinberg‑Mngomezulu and Cobus Reinach are on Springbok duty. Bok prop Ntuthuko Mchunu also remains unavailable due to injury.
However, Seabelo is optimistic with incoming reinforcements. Gurshwin Wehr, Dylan Maart and Caleb Abrahams join on loan from Griquas. Senatla said those additions bolster depth. With regular captain Salmaan Moerat still out, they will name new captain on Thursday.
HOW FAR WILL THE STORMERS GO IN THE URC THIS SEASON?
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