The Stormers have strengthened their scrumhalf options ahead of the 2026/27 season with the arrival of experienced Andre Warner on a six-month loan from the Seattle Seawolves.
The move comes at an important time for the Cape Town side, who are managing injuries at scrumhalf while also preparing for periods when Cobus Reinach will be unavailable because of Springbok commitments.
Warner, 33, brings considerable experience to the Stormers after spells with South African clubs and French side Stade Français, before moving to the United States earlier this year.
Warner joins Stormers on six-month loan
Warner’s arrival is part of the Stormers’ partnership with the Seattle Seawolves, with the two clubs having developed a strong relationship.
The Seawolves previously spent time in Cape Town training alongside the Stormers during their visit earlier this year, including preparations for a friendly between Seattle and a Stormers XV.
Now, that relationship has resulted in Warner temporarily joining the Cape-based franchise.
Stormers head coach John Dobson believes the experienced scrumhalf can make an immediate contribution.
“Andre has been really impressive since joining up with us in pre-season. He has been a consistent performer for many years, and you can see why in the professionalism he brings.”
Injury concerns create scrumhalf need
The Stormers have been looking to add depth at scrumhalf following a long-term injury to Imad Khan.
Reinach’s international commitments also mean the Stormers needed additional cover as they prepare for the demanding season ahead.
Dobson believes Warner’s experience will help address that shortage while also providing valuable guidance for younger players coming through the Stormers system.
“We have had some injuries at scrumhalf, so to be able to bring a player like Andre in is hugely helpful.”
Warner has already made an impression during pre-season, with Dobson pointing to his performance in the team’s match in Paarl.
Haashim Pead also set to join
Warner could soon be joined by another new arrival.
Haashim Pead is expected to make the move to the Western Cape after the Lions confirmed that the young player would leave Johannesburg.
Pead began his professional career with the Lions in 2024 and quickly established himself as one of the club’s promising young players.
He made his senior domestic debut in the Currie Cup against the Bulls before later earning international exposure against the Newcastle Red Bulls.
His progress was recognised when he was named Junior Player of the Year in 2025, while his performances also earned him an invitation to Rassie Erasmus’ Springbok alignment camp during the 2025/26 season.
Stormers continue to build squad depth
With Warner already confirmed and Pead expected to follow, the Stormers are continuing to strengthen their squad ahead of the opening of the 2026/27 campaign.
Warner’s immediate role will be particularly important as the team navigates injuries and international call-ups.
For Dobson, the veteran scrumhalf is not only expected to provide playing cover but also to contribute to the development of the Stormers’ emerging talent.
“He showed his worth in our pre-season match in Paarl and will also be able to help develop some of the exciting young players in our system as well.”
The Stormers’ new campaign gets underway this week, with Warner now part of a squad looking to start the season strongly.
