# DHL Stormers Champions Cup preparation

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/dhl-stormers-champions-cup-preparation
> Updated: 2026-10-17T02:30:00.000Z. Sources: 31. Developments: 2.

The DHL Stormers are preparing for their Investec Champions Cup opener against the Bristol Bears at DHL Stadium. Following a 39-22 victory over the Sharks, Director of Rugby John Dobson has emphasized the necessity of securing points during the pool phase to support the team’s campaign.

Squad adjustments include the return of Springbok loose forward Evan Roos from a hamstring injury, who replaces Hacjivah Dayimani, who has been ruled out due to concussion. The Stormers have also implemented significant changes to the front row, with Vernon Matongo, JJ Kotzé, and Sazi Sandi starting, while Springbok prop Wilco Louw has been dropped from the starting lineup for this fixture. The team is led by captain Ruhan Nel and includes Siya Kolisi.

## Claims

- The Wallabies lost 50-19 to the All Blacks in Auckland the previous week. (corroborated by 3 sources)
- The All Blacks defeated the Wallabies 43-21 in Sydney. (corroborated by 2 sources)
- The aggregate margin of defeat across the two matches was 53 points. (corroborated by 2 sources)
- Wallabies coach Les Kiss expressed faith in his players following recent losses. (single source)
- Ben Donaldson has been ruled out of the upcoming return game. (single source)
- Rookie Declan Meredith will start in the No. 10 jersey. (single source)

## Timeline

### 2026-10-17: All Blacks defeat Wallabies 43-21 to retain Bledisloe Cup

The All Blacks defeated the Wallabies 43-21 in Sydney to retain the Bledisloe Cup for the 24th consecutive year, following a dominant first-half performance.

26 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/stormers-prepare-for-champions-cup-clash-against-bristol-bears

### 2026-10-13: DHL Stormers announce squad for Champions Cup opener against Bristol Bears

The DHL Stormers have named their squad for the Investec Champions Cup opener against Bristol Bears, featuring the return of Evan Roos and a revamped front row.

5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/dhl-stormers-announce-squad-for-champions-cup-opener-against-bristol-bears

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Cite as: DHL Stormers Champions Cup preparation. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/dhl-stormers-champions-cup-preparation