Fortuin backs Stormers' rising stars
Springbok fullback Bevin Fortuin has given his backing to the Stormers in this year's Super Rugby season because of the fire power in the back three.
Fortuin, who coached the SWD Eagles side that went down 3-34 to the Stormers in a pre-season friendly in George on Saturday, believes that the men from the Cape could be pushing for the title this year.
"The Stormers are always there and there about," Fortuin told rugby365.
"If you look at how they started to play in the Currie Cup last year it looks like they have changed their brand of rugby, giving the ball a little bit of air, but still maintaining a good kicking game.
"They will always be there and there and there about and are always big contenders for one of the top two sides in South Africa."
The Stormers have a number of superstars in their ranks with Springboks Duane Vermeulen, Eben Etzebeth, Schalk Burger and Juan de Jongh all important players, but Fortuin is backing some of the up and coming stars to shine for them.
"They have a good squad," he added.
"If you look at the individuals, they have guys like Siya Kolisi, Nizaam Carr, Eben Etzebeth even Schalk Burger.
"But, I think Cheslin Kolbe is one of the best in South Africa at the moment, he just needs to get his opportunity at this higher level.
"If you look at him and look at a guy like Gio Aplon – we need those types of players in South Africa.
"Hopefully he can have a good season this year and maybe prove some of the nay-sayers in South Africa wrong and even push for a spot in the World Cup squad."
The former Cheetahs fullback is also backing those around Kolbe in the back three such as Sevens star Seabelo Senatla and Kobus van Wyk – who he believes is truly underrated.
"Someone I rate really highly is Kobus van Wyk who I think is actually one of the best wings in South Africa, as well as Seabelo Senatla," Fortuin said.
"Senatla brings something else to the party, when he gets his shot for the Stormers he will link well with a guy like Cheslin Kolbe, but I think at the moment, if you go on performance, the best wing in South Africa is Kobus van Wyk.
"People are looking at him differently, they are noticing his work-rate and what he actually does for the Stormers – putting guys under pressure and chasing the kicks.
"He is big, he is strong and quick.
"You are always looking for a guy that can step people and run around them but if you look at overall work-rate, he is one of the best at the moment.
"If you look at the Springbok team for the World Cup in the Northern Hemisphere, where guys are going to kick a lot, I think I would be picking him if I was the coach."
By Darryn Pollock
@Darrynjack365
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