The national team will officially kick off their highly anticipated tour in South Africa against one of Cape Town’s most formidable professional franchises. This historic All Blacks vs Stormers clash marks the opening match of Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry Tour. Furthermore, it is New Zealand’s first full-scale South African tour since 1996. Consequently, thousands of passionate rugby union fans are preparing for a thrilling encounter at DHL Stadium.
Who Are the DHL Stormers?
Formed in 1998, the franchise brought together top players from Western Province and neighboring unions. For over two decades, they battled against top New Zealand teams in Super Rugby. Currently, they compete in the United Rugby Championship (URC) alongside the Bulls, Sharks, and Lions, as well as elite European club competitions.
Under head coach John Dobson, the Stormers combine ferocious South African physicality with expansive, high-tempo attacking rugby. Their pinnacle achievement came during the 2021/22 season. They defeated the Bulls in Cape Town to lift their maiden URC trophy. Furthermore, they returned to the URC final the following year. Thus, establishing their home ground as an absolute fortress.
The Venue: Cape Town’s DHL Stadium
The Stormers previously called Newlands Rugby Stadium their home. However, they permanently relocated to DHL Stadium in 2021. Located near the Cape Town waterfront beneath Signal Hill, this 50,000-plus capacity venue was originally built for the 2010 FIFA World Cup. Notably, the national team will also return to this venue later in the tour to face the Springboks in another exciting All Blacks vs Stormers region fixture.
“Facing local South African franchises on home soil provides an immediate, ruthless test for international teams,” notes the team management ahead of the tour.
Key Players to Watch Out For
The Stormers squad features world-class international stars and explosive young talent:
- Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu: A brilliant 22-year-old playmaker who combines elite footwork and tactical kicking. However, an ankle injury may rule him out of this match.
- Damian Willemse: A two-time Rugby World Cup winner with the Springboks. His lethal counter-attacking skills make him dangerous from anywhere.
- Manie Libbok: The mastermind behind their 2022 URC title. His instinctive passing and support play can unlock tight defenses.
- Evan Roos: Former URC Player of the Season. A powerful, aggressive loose forward who dominates the collision zone.
- Salmaan Moerat: The commanding Stormers captain. He provides vital leadership, lineout presence, and front-row physicality.
Historic Rivalry and Connections
Cape Town has produced legendary Springboks like Jean de Villiers, Siya Kolisi, Schalk Burger, Bryan Habana, and Cheslin Kolbe. Interestingly, former New Zealand fly-half Tony Brown represented the Stormers in 2008. Additionally, lock Chris Jack played for Western Province in 2009. While the national side has never faced the Stormers directly, they played Western Province five times between 1928 and 1976.
Final Match Verdict and Coverage
With massive crowds expected and high-intensity rugby guaranteed, this match will set the tone for the entire tour. Will the visitors silence the Cape Town crowd, or can the local side pull off an iconic victory?
Are you planning to follow every tackle and try live? Explore our comprehensive All Blacks 2026 Schedule to never miss a kick-off time. For fans seeking match tickets and travel guides, check out our updated All Blacks 2026 Tickets Guide. Don’t forget to visit our main Rugby News Hub for daily squad updates, and verify official team standings directly on World Rugby.