Stormers to face Saints in March

NEWS: The Stormers will take on Northampton Saints in an exhibition match at cinch Stadium at Franklin’s Gardens in March.

The two teams will face one another for the first time on Saturday, March 9 when the United Rugby Championship and Premiership are on a break due to the Six Nations.

Both teams feature a host of internationals and play some enterprising rugby, which should make for an entertaining exhibition match in Northampton as the season heads towards the business-end.

Stormers Head Coach John Dobson said that this match will be one to look forward to for both sets of fans.

"Northampton is a prestigious opponent and Franklin's Gardens is an iconic rugby venue, so this has the makings of an epic exhibition game.

"Both teams have incredibly passionate supporters and this will be an historic occasion for all involved as we break new ground, so there is a lot to look forward to," said Dobson.

“We’re very excited to welcome the Stormers to cinch Stadium at Franklin’s Gardens next year,” said Saints’ Chief Executive, Mark Darbon.

"As well as serving up a great afternoon of action for our Season Ticket Holders, this is important for the squad from a performance point of view," Dobson said.

"There is a long gap between Premiership matches during the Six Nations period, and our first-team players will need some game time to properly prepare for the run-in to the campaign.

"I know Phil Dowson and the squad are relishing the prospect of testing themselves against new opposition of very high calibre, and no doubt will be taking the opportunity to field a strong side."

There will be some familiar faces on both sides, with former Stormers No.8 Juarno Augustus set to face his old teammates, while new recruit Courtnall Skosan will be in line to take on his former club, having scored 19 tries in 37 appearances for the men in Black, Green and Gold.