Stormers close in on London Irish backline star – report

The Stormers are reportedly engaged in discussions to secure the signing of English backline star Ben Loader.

ALSO READ | Rugby World Cup 1995: Where are they now – Os du Randt

According to Netwerk24, negotiations are at an “advanced” stage to bring London Irish fullback Loader to the Cape.

A number of London Irish players are currently looking for new employment after the club was suspended from the English Premiership.

Stormers lost to Munster in URC final

Having narrowly missed out on back-to-back United Rugby Championship (URC) titles, the Stormers have identified the wing and fullback positions as areas requiring reinforcement during the off-season.

As reported by The South African website, the Stormers and Springbok wing-cum-fullback Cheslin Kolbe failed to reach an agreement on a return to the Mother City.

The Stormers lost to Munster in this season’s URC final having beaten the Bulls the season before.

Loader, 24, who is equally at home on the wing, has amassed over 120 appearances for London Irish since his debut in the 2017/18 season.

He stands 1.82m tall and tips the scales at 92kg.

Loader has represented England at U20 level, but has yet to make his senior debut for the national team.

IN CLOSING | Rugby World Cup | 90 days until kick off: latest Springboks news!