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Cape Town - Eben Etzebeth says the Stormers will have to be ‘fired up and ready’ when they face Super Rugby defending champions, the Crusaders, at Newlands on Saturday.
The Stormers are coming off a bye week and host the New Zealand log-leaders in a match that kicks off at 17:15 on Saturday.
According to the Stormers' website, the towering Stormers lock is looking forward to the challenge that the Crusaders will bring in what should be a blockbuster clash.
“If we can win this game; firstly they are the defending champions, so that is one box ticked. They are also far ahead in the competition, so if you can beat the number one team, you can probably beat all the other teams. It will definitely be a very positive thing for us if we can pull this one off,” he said.
Etzebeth said that considering the Crusaders’ record and their performances this season, the Stormers will have to be at their best to get the win in front of the Newlands crowd.
“Because they are number one and because they are the champions, the guys will be fired up and ready.
“It is always the big ones that you want to play in, you know it is going to be tough and you can get yourself up for it,” he said.
Having recently returned from injury, 60-cap Etzebeth is keen to impose himself and hit his straps physically.
“I am feeling good. It is nice to be able to play Super Rugby. I missed the whole of last season and have also been out for a few games this year through injury. I am looking to finish the season off,” he added.
