Marais to start at fullback for Stormers’ opener

Stormers coach Robbie Fleck sprung a few surprises by picking EW Viljoen at centre and SP Marais at fullback for Saturday’s Super Rugby opener against the Bulls at Newlands. As a result of Marais’s shift to the No15 jersey, Cheslin Kolbe will start in the unaccustomed right wing position. Viljoen will make his Super Rugby debut while Marais, reserve hooker Ramone Samuels and reserve utility back Dan Kriel will make their Stormers debuts. "SP has been around and he has experience," Fleck said. "He is a quality rugby player…. He knows how to deal with the Bulls, having played for them. "In the pre-season, SP and Cheslin formed a good combination. It’s to do with our kicking combinations," he said. "EW was very good in the Currie Cup last year before injury and two years back he was the best No13 at under-21 in SA. He’s really talented."

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