Stormers XXIII vs Sharks XV: Preview and Predictions 

Round 3 of the Carling Currie Cup Premier Division heats up between the DHL Stormers XXIII and the Hollywoodbets Sharks XV on Saturday, 1 August. With both teams coming in after major defeats and sitting at the bottom of the log, this is set to be an interesting match.  

The Stormers XXIII come into this match on a low, as they dropped to the bottom of the log. This comes after their 41-3 defeat to the Sanlam Boland Kavaliers last weekend. They will be looking to bring the same energy they brought to their opening match win over the Suzuki Griquas in Round 1.  

The Sharks XV will also be looking to bounce back after their 43-21 loss to the Toyota Cheetahs last weekend.  

So, with both teams sitting at the bottom of the log, with one point difference between them, they’ll both be looking for a bounce-back win here.  

Why This Match Matters So Much   

Both sides sit at the bottom of the log. The Sharks XV sit in 5^th position with 5 points while the Stormers XXIII sit in 6^th position with 4 points. So, neither side can afford another loss, especially with the Cheetahs and Boland Kavaliers topping the table.  

For the Stormers XXIII, this is an opportunity to bounce back after a poor performance last weekend.  

For the Sharks XV, another defeat would leave them at the bottom of the log. This comes after an opening round win over the Airlink Pumas.  

Tactical Overview  

The Stormers are at their best when they play with width and tempo, moving the ball quickly through multiple phases and creating space for their outside backs. They’ll be looking for a far more accurate performance after struggling to build momentum last weekend. 

The Sharks are likely to focus on their powerful forward pack, using physical carries to dominate the gainline before releasing their backs. They matched the Cheetahs for much of last week’s encounter. This time, improved discipline and game management can make the difference. 

Set-piece execution and territorial kicking could ultimately decide what promises to be a closely fought contest. 

Players to Watch  

Markus Muller (Stormers XXIII)  

Playing outside centre, Markus Muller is a key backline player. Muller is known for his explosive attacking, vision, and try-scoring abilities. At only 19 years old, he is certainly a player to watch.  

Thomas Dyer (Sharks XV)  

Playing eighth man, Thomas Dyer is certainly a player to watch. As captain of the Sharks XV, Dyer is known for his leadership abilities. Not only this, but he is the key link between the forwards and the backs.  

Starting Lineup (Stormers XXIII)  

1. Hencus van Wyk 

2. Vernon Paulo 

3. Herman Lubbe 

4. Tom Barnard 

5. Gary Poryer 

6. Keke Morabe 

7. Louw Nel 

8. Wandile Mlaba 

9. Stefan Ungerer (C) 

10. Kyle Smith 

11. Suleiman Hartzenberg 

12. Josh Boulle 

13. Markus Muller 

14. Mfundo Ndhlovu 

15. Dylan Miller 

Replacements  

16. Altus Rabe 

17. Mhleli Khuwayo 

18. Danie Kruger 

19. Gerbrandt Grobler 

20. Xola Nyali 

21. Exekiel Ngobeni 

22. Gino Cupido 

23. Kian Davis  

Starting Lineup (Sharks XV)  

1. Cameron Dawson 

2. Bryce Calvert 

3. Simphiwe Ngobese 

4. Johan Momsen 

5. Deon Slabbert 

6. Luann Olivier 

7. Danio Botha 

8. Thomas Dyer (C) 

9. Ross Braude 

10. Tim Swiel 

11. Lyle Matthews 

12. Janco Purchase 

13. Marnus Potgieter 

14. Christie Grobbelaar 

15. Luan Giliomee 

Replacements  

16. Liam van Wyk 

17. Phiwayinkosi “Rambo” Kubheka 

18. Lee-Marvin Mazibuko 

19. Hanu Pieterse 

20. Jean-Henri Smit 

21. Juan Loots 

22. Albie Bester 

23. Khuthi Rasivhaga  

Match Details 

Date: 1 August 2026  

Venue: DHL Stadium, Cape Town 

Kick-off Time: 15:00pm  

TV: SuperSport  

Prediction  

Both teams enter the match after disappointing defeats. But the Sharks XV arguably showed more encouraging signs in their loss to the Cheetahs than the Stormers did against Boland. If they can maintain that level for the full 80 minutes, their forward power and physicality should prove decisive. 

Prediction: Sharks to win 

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