Bok settles dispute with Stormers

UPDATE: The saga surrounding Ben-Jason Dixon’s contract with the Stormers seems to be over.

On Friday, the Cape Town franchise revealed that the Springbok loose forward will remain a Stormers player until at least 2027 following the outcome of an independent arbitration this week.

Dixon sought arbitration to resolve a particular clause in his contract, which runs until July 2027.

It is believed that the issue was the wording of an ‘exit clause’.

The independent process found Dixon’s contract is binding, with no revisions applicable.

Stormers Director of Rugby John Dobson said that with the arbitration behind them, he looks forward to seeing Dixon give his all for the team, as he has done throughout his career.

“Ben-Jason is one of the most committed rugby players around and has been a vital cog in our team for some time.

“With this now settled, we know that he will continue to give everything on and off the field for us,” he said.

Dixon said that with the matter now resolved, he is looking forward to making an impact on the field once again.

“I’m really grateful that both sides had the chance to bring everything to the table through arbitration and get clarity going forward.

“With this behind us, I’m looking forward to getting back to doing what I love — giving my best for the Stormers.

*Meanwhile, centre Wandisile Simelane has signed a contract extension with the Stormers, which will see him continue to play an influential role in midfield.

The length of the contract extension was not revealed.

Since joining the Stormers in early 2024, Simelane has made great strides and provided a crucial creative spark.

Dobson said that he expects to see Simelane continue to grow as a midfield force.

“Wandi has got incredible natural talent which has marked him as a dangerous player from a young age. What we have been particularly impressed with is his willingness to learn and develop his game.

“He has an incredibly high ceiling and we are looking forward to seeing what he can do and add to our team going forward,” he said.

Simelane said that the decision to extend his contract was an easy one given the unique environment in Cape Town.

“At the Stormers, players are encouraged to express themselves and make the most of their abilities.

“I feel that I have grown as a player since moving here and I’m looking forward to seeing where this team can go,” he said.