Following the financial collapse of London Irish last week, the futures of former Exile players have been hotly discussed within recent days. One player who’s future is starting to take shape, is that of exciting winger Ben Loader.
Despite speculation that Loader would be joining up with a Premiership rugby side, the 24-year-old seems set on agreeing a deal with South African side the DHL Stormers. According to reports from Bristol Live and the Daily Telegraph, Loader was previously in talks with two Gallagher Premiership clubs, but has opted to join the Stormers after impressing the Cape Town side in the latest Champions Cup.
The Stormers beat Irish in two Group stage meetings during the 2022/23 Champions Cup, running out 14-28 (away) and 34-14 home victories. Loader was reportedly in discussion to sign with Saracens or Bristol Bears, yet neither move has come to fruition, thanks to a late bid by the South African club.
Reports are that Loader will sign a two-year deal with the Stormers, which sees the winger make the change to play in the United Rugby Championship for the foreseeable future. The Stormers finished third in the 2022/23 URC season, and progressed all the way through to the final.
A resilient Munster, hot off their semi-final triumph over Leinster, continued to overcome the odds with a 19-14 victory in Cape Town, to seal the URC trophy.