Stormers vs Griquas: Preview and Predictions

The 2026 Carling Currie Cup Premier Division continues with an exciting opening-round clash as the DHL Stormers XXIII welcome the defending champions, the Suzuki Griquas, to DHL Stadium on Friday, 17 July. While this will be the first Currie Cup match played under the Stormers XXIII name, the fixture continues the long-standing rivalry between Western Province and Griquas. 

The two sides last met during the 2025 Currie Cup, where DHL Western Province claimed a convincing 47-17 victory. But plenty has changed since then. Griquas arrive as the reigning Currie Cup champions after lifting the trophy in 2025, while the Stormers XXIII begin a new era. They will be eager to make a statement in front of their home supporters. 

Why This Match Matters So Much   

This match marks the beginning of a new chapter for the Stormers, who are competing in the Currie Cup under the Stormers XXIII identity for the first time. After missing out on the playoffs last season, they’ll be determined to start the campaign with a victory on home soil. 

For Griquas, the challenge is defending the title they won in 2025. Pieter Bergh’s side have built a reputation as one of South Africa’s toughest provincial teams. They combine a powerful forward pack with an exciting backline capable of scoring from anywhere. A win in Cape Town would send a strong message to the rest of the competition. 

Tactical Overview  

The Stormers are expected to play an expansive brand of rugby. Expect them to use quick ball movement and their dangerous outside backs to stretch the Griquas defence. Playing at home should also allow them to dictate the tempo and make the most of familiar conditions. 

Griquas, meanwhile, thrive on physicality. Their scrum and maul have been major weapons over the past two seasons, while their disciplined kicking game often forces opponents into mistakes. If they can dominate the set pieces and control territory, they’ll upset the hosts. 

Players to Watch  

To be Confirmed (Stormers)  

Leon Lyons (Griquas)  

Veteran prop Leon Lyons is set to earn his 50th cap for Suzuki Griquas, making this a memorable milestone. A powerful scrummager and experienced campaigner, Lyons will be central to Griquas’ set-piece battle and will look to celebrate the occasion with a strong performance. 

Starting Lineup (Stormers)  

TO BE CONFIRMED 

Starting Lineup (Griquas)  

1. Leon Lyons 

2. Janco Uys 

3. IG Prinsloo 

4. Malembe Mpofu 

5. Albert Liebenberg (C) 

6. Carl Els 

7. Marco de Witt 

8. Dillon Smith 

9. Bobby Alexander 

10. Geroge Whitehead 

11. Stefan Coetzee 

12. Sako Makata 

13. Mnombo Zwelendaba 

14. Dylan Maart 

15. Gurswin Wehr 

Replacements  

16. Tiaan Lange 

17. Eddie Davids 

18. Ntobeko Shezi 

19. Derik Pretorius 

20. Lourens Oosthuizen 

21. Caleb Abrahams 

22. Damian Markus 

23. Cameron Hufke  

Match Details  

Date: 17 July 2026  

Venue: DHL Stadium, Cape Town 

Kick-off Time: 19:05pm  

TV: SuperSport  

Prediction  

Although Griquas are the defending champions and have proven they can compete with anyone, home advantage could prove decisive. The Stormers XXIII should have enough quality to edge a fiercely contested opening-round encounter, but they’ll need to match Griquas’ physicality for the full 80 minutes. 

Prediction: Stormers XXIII to win 

Who do you think will win? Bet on rugby now with bet.co.za.