URC

Smit: Rugby will never be 100% safe

While John Smit supports reasonable initiatives to reduce the risk of serious injury in rugby, the iconic Springbok centurion says sport will never be 100% safe.

Lions change two for Edinburgh clash

The Lions have made one alteration each to their starting pack and backline for Friday’s @Vodacom United Rugby Championship match against Edinburgh. #URC

By the numbers: Zebre vs Stormers

The DHL Stormers will look to pick up another full house of points when they travel to Parma to face Zebre after blitzing the Italian outfit by 48 points last season.

JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA - APRIL 23: Lions players during the United Rugby Championship match between Emirates Lions and Connacht at Emirates Airline Park on April 23, 2022 in Johannesburg, South Africa. (Photo by Sydney Seshibedi/Gallo Images)

Smit calls for clarity on water-break rule

While drinks breaks may be disruptive and spoil the momentum of the game, John Smit believes there is some merit to having them on a frequent basis.

John Dobson, head coach of the Stormers during the Stormers tribute to acknowledge those who have been affected by the Covid-19 pandemic and those who have contributed over this period at Newlands Rugby Stadium on 6 August 2020 © Ryan Wilkisky/BackpagePix

Dobbo’s Diary: Stormers looking to build depth on tour

DHL Stormers coach John Dobson is looking forward to using the three-game Vodacom United Rugby Championship tour to grow his squad.

Touring Stormers leave Bok props at home

Springbok heavyweights Steven Kitshoff and Frans Malherbe were surprise omissions from the 28-man DHL Stormers squad chosen to tour Italy and Wales.

Mallett: Boks would need to adapt to Libbok

Former Springbok coach Nick Mallett believes DHL Stormers flyhalf Manie Libbok may be the answer to the Springboks’ woes in the No 10 jersey, if they are able to adapt to his style of play.

Damian Willemse of Stormers celebrates Stormers beating Ulster to reach the final during the United Rugby Championship 2021/22 Semifinal match between Stormers and Ulster held at Cape Town Stadium in Cape Town, South Africa on 11 June 2022

Versatile Willemse is the Stormers’ lethal weapon

Damian Willemse has embraced his ability to play in multiple positions in the backline and will be vital for the DHL Stormers in their Vodacom United Rugby Championship title defence.

Jake: ‘Illogical’ water breaks need review

Jake White has expressed his frustrations with the mandatory water-break rule following the prolonged, stop-start Vodacom United Rugby Championship clash between the Vodacom Bulls and Connacht on Friday night.

Deon Fourie of Stormers is congratulated for scoring a try during the United Rugby Championship 2022/23 match between Stormers and Edinburgh held at Cape Town Stadium in Cape Town, South Africa on 1 October 2022

Hartzenberg double helps Stormers strike Edinburgh

Suleiman Hartzenberg scored a brace of tries as the DHL Stormers recovered from a poor first half to claim a comeback bonus-point victory over Edinburgh in Cape Town on Saturday.