Glasgow Warriors Team Named for BKT United Rugby Championship Quarter-Final

29 May 2025

Playoff rugby returns to Scotstoun as Glasgow Warriors welcome South African opposition in the form of the DHL Stormers in the BKT United Rugby Championship Quarter-Final under the Friday night lights.

GLASGOW, SCOTLAND - JUNE 08: Warriors Sione Tuipulotu celebrates with scorer Ross Thompson during a United Rugby Championship Play-Off Quarter-Final match between Glasgow Warriors and DHL Stormers at Scotstoun Stadium, on June 08, 2024, in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Ross MacDonald / SNS Group)

Friday 30 May | Scotstoun Stadium | Kick-off 7.35pm
Last remaining tickets available now at glasgowwarriors.org

This is a rematch of last season’s playoff clash, and Franco Smith’s side will be looking to go one step further this time, backed by a passionate home crowd.

Team News: Warriors Bolstered by Key Returns

Josh McKay and Henco Venter both return to the starting XV, with McKay recovering from injury and Venter back from suspension to pack down at number eight.

In the front row, Jamie Bhatti retains his place, joined by Gregor Hiddleston and Murphy Walker — the latter making his first start of the 2024/25 season. Alex Samuel partners Scott Cummings in the second row, while Venter lines up alongside Euan Ferrie and Rory Darge in the back row.

Tom Jordan and George Horne continue their half-back partnership, with Sione Tuipulotu making his first appearance at Scotstoun since January. Stafford McDowall returns at outside centre, and captain Kyle Steyn leads the back-three alongside Kyle Rowe and McKay.

On the bench, Jack Mann could make his return from injury, while Sam Talakai is named in a matchday squad for the first time since April. Academy standout Macenzzie Duncan is rewarded for his strong showing against Leinster with a spot among the replacements.

Head Coach Franco Smith said:

“The Stormers will pose one of the most dangerous attacking threats in the competition tomorrow night, and we know that we must be at our best to meet the challenge they will bring.
We know how special an atmosphere Scotstoun can provide on nights like these, and we know the Warrior Nation will make themselves heard tomorrow night.”

Glasgow Warriors team to face DHL Stormers

  1. Jamie Bhatti (123)
  2. Gregor Hiddleston (25)
  3. Murphy Walker (15)
  4. Alex Samuel (38)
  5. Scott Cummings (140)
  6. Euan Ferrie (37)
  7. Rory Darge (65)
  8. Henco Venter (34)
  9. George Horne (137)
  10. Tom Jordan (69)
  11. Kyle Steyn (C) (90)
  12. Sione Tuipulotu (66)
  13. Stafford McDowall (92)
  14. Kyle Rowe (35)
  15. Josh McKay (62)

Replacements:
16. Johnny Matthews (95)
17. Nathan McBeth (56)
18. Sam Talakai (19)
19. Max Williamson (29)
20. Jack Mann (13)
21. Macenzzie Duncan (2)
22. Jamie Dobie (86)
23. Adam Hastings (68)

Unavailable: Gregor Brown, Jack Dempsey, Matt Fagerson, Zander Fagerson, Huw Jones, Ally Miller, Duncan Munn, Patrick Schickerling, Duncan Weir.


Match Day Guide: What’s On at Scotstoun

With gates opening at 6pm, there’s plenty of pre-match entertainment for fans of all ages before kick-off at 7.35pm.

BKT Passing Challenge

Test your rugby accuracy on the back pitches with the BKT Passing Challenge — open to all fans from 6pm.

Community Rugby

Young players from Greenock RFC, Highland RFC, and Allan Glens RFC will take to the back pitches for some exciting community rugby action.

Clyde in the Fan Zone

Meet club mascot Clyde in the Fan Zone, where he’ll be taking photos with young fans.

Glasgow Children’s Hospital Charity

Visit the GCHC gazebo for fun fundraising activities and pick up one of our Autograph or Champions books for a £5 donation, supporting the “Fighting for our Families” campaign.

Street Food & Drink

Enjoy local food vendors catering to all dietary needs — including halal, vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. Hector & Harriet will also be on-site serving their new “Drinks With A Kick” menu alongside their full hot drinks range.

Autographs After the Game

Stick around post-match to meet the players and get autographs in front of the main stand. Don’t forget your merchandise!

The Fan Zone & Clubhouse

Both will be open for food, drinks, and atmosphere. The Clubhouse is located outside the stadium and can be accessed via the northeast gate. Please note: drinks cannot be transferred between the stadium and Clubhouse.

Accessibility Services

SP Energy Networks Sensory Packs (with ear defenders and sensory toys) are available on request for supporters with additional needs. Email [email protected] to reserve. Wheelchair and pram storage is available at main reception on a first-come, first-served basis.


🎟️ Don’t miss your chance to be part of the Warrior Nation for a historic Quarter-Final clash.
Click here to book your tickets now.

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