Van Rhyn leads Stormers in friendly against Sharks at Kolisi Field

Ernst van Rhyn will lead the Stormers in a friendly against the Sharks in Gqeberha on Friday.

The pre-season game, to be played at Grey High School's Kolisi Field, is the Stormers' final pre-season match ahead of the 2022/23 URC season.

The URC champions got their pre-season underway with an impressive 94-7 win over the SWD Eagles in George last Friday.

The team news is in ??©? Ernst van Rhyn?? @SharksRugby??The Kolisi Field, Grey High? 14:00#dhldelivers #iamastormer https://t.co/DwG0fBLLAq pic.twitter.com/ACgENTZ4jp

There are a host of changes from the squad that faced the Eagles.

In the backline, there is a new midfield duo as young Suleiman Hartzenberg, who crossed the whitewash four times in George, is partnered by the experienced Dan du Plessis. Chris Hollis is on the wing and scrumhalf Paul de Wet makes his return from injury.

Up front, Van Rhyn is joined in the loose trio by No 8 Hacjivah Dayimani and Junior Pokomela, while Marvin Orie slots into the second row.

There is also an all-new front row of Ali Vermaak, Neethling Fouche and Andre-Hugo Venter.

The extended bench features a number of exciting young talents, with the likes of Imad Khan and Paul de Villiers alongside experienced campaigners like Seabelo Senatla and Godlen Masimla.

Head coach John Dobson said these pre-season games were vital to their preparations.

"We saw some really encouraging signs last week and the squad has really connected well this week as we have prepared for this match.

"It will be really valuable for all 26 players to get some game time as we continue to build towards our first match of the season which is just over two weeks away," Dobson said.

Friday's match kicks off at 14:00.

Stormers XV:

15 Clayton Blommetjies, 14 Tristan Leyds, 13 Suleiman