DHL Stormers XXIII on home turf

STORMERS U23S READY FOR FORTRESS TEST

The DHL Stormers XXIII will launch their SA Rugby U23 Cup campaign on home soil this Saturday, taking on the Vodacom Bulls XV at DHL Stadium in a tantalising double-header.

Kick-off for the U23 clash is set for 16h00, coming directly on the heels of the senior Vodacom URC fixture between the DHL Stormers and Connacht. It's a perfect opportunity for the Cape franchise to showcase their emerging talent in front of what should be a substantial crowd already in the stadium for the URC showdown.

Playing at DHL Stadium gives the Stormers a genuine advantage. The fortress on the Cape Flats has been a fortress for the senior side, and there's no reason the U23s can't benefit from that familiar surroundings and vocal home support.

The Bulls XV will provide a stern test, though. The Pretoria outfit's development side are always competitive, and this fixture has all the hallmarks of a proper Gauteng-versus-Western Cape battle.

For the Stormers' young guns, this is a crucial early statement. The SA Rugby U23 Cup is a breeding ground for future Vodacom URC and international talent, and establishing a winning mentality at the outset could set the tone for the entire campaign.

Fans keen to catch the U23 action can secure their tickets via stormers.co.za, making for an economical way to spend a Saturday afternoon of quality rugby. With the senior side also in action, it's a genuine double treat at DHL Stadium.

The Stormers organisation clearly has ambitions to develop their next generation while maintaining competitive standards at senior level. This back-to-back fixture arrangement is smart scheduling, one that maximises their home advantage and gives the Cape faithful proper value for money.