# DHL Stormers rugby club developments

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/dhl-stormers-rugby-club-developments
> Updated: 2026-09-02T10:00:28.000Z. Sources: 4. Developments: 2.

The DHL Stormers have undergone significant leadership and scheduling developments as they prepare for upcoming rugby campaigns.

In August, the South African club announced a historic match against the New Zealand national rugby team, described by Director of Rugby John Dobson as “history in the making.” The fixture marked the first time the club would face the New Zealand side.

By September, the club officially launched its 2026-27 season campaign. Ruhan Nel was confirmed as the club captain, succeeding Salmaan Moerat. The team also unveiled new kits and prepared for the Vodacom United Rugby Championship (URC) season, with plans to integrate new signings such as Siya Kolisi and Cheslin Kolbe.

## Timeline

### 2026-09-02: Ruhan Nel named captain of DHL Stormers for 2026-27 season

Ruhan Nel has been named captain of the DHL Stormers for the 2026-27 season as the club prepares for the upcoming Vodacom URC campaign.

4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/ruhan-nel-appointed-stormers-captain-for-2026-27-urc-season

### 2026-08-05: DHL Stormers set historic match against New Zealand rugby side

DHL Stormers named a squad to face New Zealand's national rugby team for the first time, with captain Ruhan Nel leading a lineup that includes Warrick Gelant; Director John Dobson calls it a historic occasion.

5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/dhl-stormers-set-historic-match-against-new-zealand-rugby-side

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Cite as: DHL Stormers rugby club developments. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/dhl-stormers-rugby-club-developments