Ruben van Heerden will make his 50th appearance for the Stormers on Saturday in their United Rugby Championship URC clash against Connacht in Cape Town 4 pm kick-off.
While its a welcome milestone for the towering lock, the absence of Frans Malherbe through a back injury and the suspended Neethling Fouch might put some strain on the Stormers scrum a weapon theyve used with plenty of success this season.
Young tighthead Sazi Sandi must step up in the starting jersey, with veteran Brok Harris set to provide cover off the bench.
Its the start of a critical phase of their campaign with four matches left to secure a knockout spot.
The Cape side have been boosted by the return of fullback Warrick Gelant and winger Seabelo Senatla. They are part of an exciting backline that sees utility back Damian Willemse shifting to inside centre where he will partner Dan du Plessis. Playmaker Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu is the flyhalf and his combination with Willemse and Gelant will be one to look out for.