Scotland international Oli Kebble returns to the URC

The Stormers have moved to boost their front-row options with the signing of two new props, including former player and Scotland international Oli Kebble.

Cape Town-born Kebble has rejoined his home club from French outfit Oyonnax, eight years after leaving South Africa to sign for Glasgow Warriors.

Kebble, who played for the Junior Springboks, won 12 Scotland caps between 2020 and 2022, scoring one try.

The 33-year-old loosehead played 17 games for Oyonnax in Pro D2 last season but will now be a part of the Stormers’ bid to replicate their 2022 URC title triumph.

He has been brought in as a trade with Sti Sithole heading to the Vodacom Bulls, and returns to where it all started, having made 47 appearances for the Stormers before heading overseas.

Tight-head Hencus van Wyk joins him in Cape Town after signing from the Cheetahs.

“Oli and Hencus will add significant depth to our current senior squad. Both players understand what is required to deliver at this level and we are looking forward to seeing the impact they both have on our system,” said Director of Rugby, John Dobson.

“We have recently lost the likes of Steven Kitshoff and Frans Malherbe to long-term injuries and with Neethling Fouche now in the Springbok mix, it was important to find some experienced heads to come in.

“It is always good to have quality to compete for places in the squad and they will also play an important role in developing the talented young front row forwards we have here. We have seen the benefit of this approach in the past and expect Oli and Hencus to have a major impact on the younger players who are coming through.”