Get Newsletter

'Master' Kitshoff helps lay groundwork for Stormers' poaching future

SPOTLIGHT: Captain Steven Kitshoff and loose forward Deon Fourie are both playing integral roles when it comes to developing future breakdown specialists at the Stormers.

ADVERTISEMENT

The Stormers pride themselves on their work at the breakdowns and they have several players who have starred in that facet of play in the United Rugby Championship.

Fourie is currently second in the table when it comes to turnovers won (23) in the URC. He is just one behind Ospreys’ Jac Morgan.

Kitshoff is also one of the best in business when it comes to disrupting opposition ball, while Evan Roos and Hacjivah Dayimani have both shown their prowess as well.

Roos, who currently sits with 13 turnovers won in the URC, opened up on the additional breakdown work he does with Kitshoff behind the scenes.

“Steven and I do quite a bit of extras after training and he is quite a master in that,” said Roos.

“I asked him if he can help me and it looks like it has been paying off.

ADVERTISEMENT

“I am very happy about that.”

Roos also paid tribute to Fourie, who has brought some much-need experience to the Stormers’ pack.

“It’s awesome playing with him [Fourie].

“I watched him play when I was growing up, so to be able to play with him is such an honour.

ADVERTISEMENT

“His experience and calmness helps me and Hacjivah in the loose trio a lot.

“I enjoy playing with Deon and he is such a great guy as well.”

Story continues below…

‘In the right place’

After several eye-catching performances, Roos has become a household name in South Africa’s rugby circles.

The Stormers finished the round-robin phase of the URC in second position and Roos played a significant role in that success.

“I’ve been here two years now and I am very thankful and blessed to be part of it,” said the big No.8.

“I am excited to come into work every day and if that is the case then you are in the right place.

“I am just trying to get the basics right every week.

“I’ve got such a great team with me and it helps make those kinds of things easy.”

@rugby365com

Join free

Aotearoa Rugby Podcast | Episode 6

Sam Warburton | The Big Jim Show | Full Episode

Japan Rugby League One | Sungoliath v Eagles | Full Match Replay

Japan Rugby League One | Spears v Wild Knights | Full Match Replay

Boks Office | Episode 10 | Six Nations Final Round Review

Aotearoa Rugby Podcast | How can New Zealand rugby beat this Ireland team

Beyond 80 | Episode 5

Rugby Europe Men's Championship Final | Georgia v Portugal | Full Match Replay

Write A Comment