Vodacom Stormers hard at work

And good news for Stormers fans is that Conrad Jantjes and Joe van Niekerk were back to resume training with their team-mates.

Jantjes had to return prematurely from the Stormers tour after picking up an injury early on tour, while Van Niekerk didn’t even accompany the team on the overseas leg of their Vodacom Super 14 campaign due to injury.

Both, however, played for Vodacom Western Province on Saturday at Newlands against the Eagles and both were impressive enough to warrant a call up to the Stormers squad.

The team have set up base at Newlands and will be training at Villager Rugby Club for the remainder of the season. Work is about to commence on a world-class venue at the old Bellville RFC grounds.

The Stormers tackle the Lions at Newlands on Saturday and coach Kobus van der Merwe are sure to consider both of them for the match 22.

Jantjes could slot in at either wing or fullback, while Van Niekerk – who made his comeback last weekend against Boland already – could be on the substitutes’ bench after some strong performances by Justin Melck since his switch from flank to No 8.

Van der Merwe said the Stormers would select their strongest team. “Conrad and Joe are both in our training squad and will come in contention for selection,” he said.

The Stormers team will be announced on Tuesday.