Stormers star 'hands off' international offers
SPOTLIGHT: Jonathan Roche stands out as one of the most exhilarating young midfield talents to arise from the Stormers system in recent years.
Not only has he been called up to a Springbok alignment camp already, but he is also attracting international interest.
Ireland qualified through his grandmother and is also eligible for Zimbabwe from his father’s side; the interest in his services is abundant.
However, the 23-year-old has politely ‘handed off’ those offers and opted to “extend his stay” in Cape Town.
Matt Norton, the global Head of Rugby at Roc Nation Sports International, confirmed the increased demand for the talented centre.
However, the hue of Green he aspires to is much darker than the Irish emerald and has Gold trimmings.
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“Yes, he is eligible for Ireland,” Norton told @rugby365com.
“At the moment Roche would like to play for the Springboks.
“He is a Cape Town boy and a South African through-and-through.”
Two years ago, while he was still at Cape Town University, Zimbabwe showed interest in his services.
“His dad’s side is from Zimbabwe,” Norton said.
“He turned that down as well.
“Roche is doing well at the Stormers, his family is here, and he’s playing well for the Stormers.”
Then the clincher.
“He will extend at the Stormers,” his agent said about the contract that expires at the end of the season.
“Who he plays his international rugby for down the line, who knows?
“He would love it to be the Springboks.
“If it is someone else, then so be it.
“We are facilitating those conversations and doing what is best for Johnny on and off the field.
“We need to appreciate the fact that every player is unique and has his own goals and ambitions.
“With what and who that aligns to, we don’t know yet.
“It is good to see the Stormers backing him and giving him some good game time.”
The rapid rise of the former Bishops (Diocesan College) pupil through the Stormers was rewarded with an invitation to a Springbok alignment camp in 2025, highlighting how highly he is rated in South Africa.
Roche is a physical, direct and highly competitive midfielder who is comfortable at both inside and outside centre.
@JanDKrugby
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