The Stormers are facing a lock crisis with the news that Salmaan Moerat will be joining French champion club La Rochelle at the end of the season. The 28-year-old lock has been a key player for the Stormers and the Springboks, but will now be leaving Cape Town to embark on a new chapter in his career.
Moerat’s departure is a significant blow to the Stormers, who are already struggling with depth in the second row. His regular partner, Ruben van Heerden, is also set to leave the club at the end of the season, having signed with Montpellier. The Stormers will now be on the hunt for a replacement lock to fill the gap left by Moerat and van Heerden.
Lock Options for the Stormers
The Stormers currently have a number of options at lock, including JD Schickerling, Adré Smith, Conor Evans, and Gary Porter. However, the need for an experienced lock is likely to push recruitment beyond the Cape. The club has already been rebuffed by Bulls lock Cobus Wiese, who declined an opportunity to return to his former side.
According to the South African Rugby Union, the Stormers are expected to strengthen their lock stocks, but will take a measured approach, targeting a player who fits their system and has the potential to become a fan favourite at DHL Stadium.
Wing Concerns for the Stormers
The Stormers are also facing concerns at wing, with the calf injury to Seabelo Senatla stretching their depth. However, Damian Willemse impressed in his first outing on the right wing, and the club is also developing youngsters Suleiman Hartzenberg and Joel Leotlela in the U23 ranks.
The Stormers will be looking to solidify their position in the United Rugby Championship (URC) standings, and will need to address their lock and wing concerns in order to do so. With the 2023-24 United Rugby Championship season heating up, the Stormers will be looking to make some key signings to strengthen their squad.
- Stormers lock Salmaan Moerat joins La Rochelle at the end of the season
- Ruben van Heerden set to leave the Stormers for Montpellier
- Stormers facing lock crisis with limited options
- Club targeting experienced lock to fill gap
- Wing concerns for the Stormers with Seabelo Senatla injured
