Ruan Nortje and Marvin Orie became fast friends in the Springbok camp, but the Vodacom Bulls captain is bracing for a brutal test when he jumps against the battle-hardened Stormers lock in Friday’s north-south derby.

After sitting out both of the Bulls’ opening Champions Cup clashes, Nortje is among the experienced players who are expected to return in the United Rugby Championship derby in Cape Town.

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The 24-year-old made his Test debut for the Springboks this year and during his time with the national team became good friends with Stormers pair Orie and Evan Roos.

A major talking point ahead of the clash at Cape Town Stadium is the injury-enforced absence of Salmaan Moerat, but Nortje said that he still expects a tough battle against the Stormers lock on Friday.

“A fight against Marvin is always fun. You’re testing yourself against one of the best. I am very excited about that,” says Nortje.

“Obviously I have great respect for Marvin. We are good friends off the field after being with the Boks together. I enjoy his company and learn a lot from him. I feel very sorry for Salmaan. He is a brilliant player. I hope we see him back on the field soon.

“I do think the Stormers have good depth. Marvin will take any young lock under his wing and thoroughly explain to him what will happen where. We expect nothing less.”

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