Stormers wary of Willie le Roux threat for Bulls as Manie Libbok misses training

The Stormers find themselves on high alert regarding the potential impact of veteran flyhalf Willie le Roux in Saturday’s United Rugby Championship North-South Derby against the Bulls in Cape Town.

With Director of Rugby Jake White preparing to roll the dice with his selection, there is a cloud of uncertainty surrounding where Le Roux, a 98-cap Springbok, will line up at the Cape Town Stadium (2pm start).

A Stormers update: No Manie Libbok, Ruhan Nel, and Suleiman Hartzenberg at training. Jurie Matthee running at 10, Dan du Plessis back at 12. Clayton Blommetjies in the mix with Gary Porter as lock cover #URC #STOvBUL pic.twitter.com/pRAfPegXMF

— Leighton Koopman (@Leighton_K) February 5, 2025

Le Roux’s prowess as a playmaker has proven to be a game-changer, particularly following his recent appearance off the bench against the Lions, where he spearheaded a remarkable turnaround for the Bulls.

Whether he dons the No 10 jersey or plays in his more familiar fullback position, the Stormers know they must devise strategies to neutralise a player whose talent has garnered him acclaim both locally and internationally.

The DHL Stadium is heading for a sell-out, with around 5 000 tickets left for the clash on Wednesday.

In contrast, the Stormers face their own pivot challenges, with Bok flyhalf Manie Libbok absent from Wednesday’s training session as he continues to recover from a knee injury sustained against Leinster.

It looks like promising young talent Jurie Matthee will step up to fill his boots, while inside centre Dan du Plessis has returned to training, bolstering their midfield defence should he be included in the starting line-up.

Less than 5 000 match tickets left! Get yours now to be able to say you were there for our second sold-out game this season.

🎟️ https://t.co/UbcKnDea9C#STOvBUL #iamastormer @Vodacom #URC pic.twitter.com/qJK6BME5ji

— DHL Stormers (@THESTORMERS) February 5, 2025

Norman Laker, the Stormers’ defence coach, has acknowledged the unique challenges posed by Le Roux, highlighting not only his tactical experience, but also his innate ability to make critical decisions under pressure.

“Firstly, Willie is from the Strand and he went to Paul Roos, and there are only talented people from the Strand and Paul Roos,” Laker quipped, before turning serious.

“He’s a world-class rugby player... He has played a lot in that role for the Springboks, and his distribution and tactical kicking are really good. He has a calming influence on the pitch.”

Despite the absence of several Springbok players like Elrigh Louw, Ruan Nortjé and Johan Goosen, Laker is wary of underestimating their opponents.

The Bulls come into this match on a high after their commanding victory over the Lions at Ellis Park, which has undoubtedly given them a boost in confidence as they aim for their first URC win in Cape Town.