Stormers look to reset as Ruhan Nel returns for decisive Leicester showdown

By SABC Sport
13th January 2026

The Stormers head into Saturday's Champions Cup clash with Leicester knowing there is little room for error, but they will do so with a boost as centre Ruhan Nel returns to training after injury.

Assistant coach Dawie Snyman confirmed the 34-year-old is back in contention, with his defensive organisation and leadership expected to be vital against a Leicester backline featuring the likes of Freddie Steward and Jack van Poortvliet.

"Ruhan Nel is looking alright. He is training today, and Jonny Roche is on his way back," said Snyman. "He (Nel) brings a lot to the team, not only defensively, but also as a leader."

Nel's return follows a sobering 61-10 loss to Harlequins in London, which ended the Stormers' 10-match winning run across competitions. A largely second-string side conceded nine tries, with Snyman admitting the performance was well below the standards expected.

The Stormers' first-choice squad remained in Cape Town last week and trained on Friday and Monday, while the touring players returned earlier this week. With the group now reunited, Saturday's fixture is seen as a chance to reset.