'To have him back is magic': Stormers have another ace in their side
SPOTLIGHT: Growth and maturity are key aspects of a rugby player’s journey, and the Stormers might have struck gold with a returning star.
Stormers superstar Damian Willemse has seen a change in Hacjivah Dayimani after the latter’s stint in France.
The 28-year-old Dayimani, who was part of the Stormers squad that won the inaugural United Rugby Championship in 2022, joined Racing 92 in 2024 before returning to Cape Town earlier this year on a short-term deal until the end of the season.
He came off the bench in the 32-19 win over the Bulls in Pretoria last weekend and showed glimpses of the opportunism that has been a hallmark of his playing style.
An example was the incredible pace he showed to chase down a kick ahead from Willemse to score the bonus point try in Saturday’s win.
It could be a taste of what’s to come if he gathers steam in the business end of the season.
The story continues below…
“He has just brought so much energy and spirit,” Willemse told reporters ahead of the Stormers’ showdown against the Dragons in Cape Town on Sunday.
“His style of play…it matches the Stormers and how we play. He is part of us, and he is always part of us.
“The stint in Paris was something that he needed, especially for his growth and his maturity.
“To have him back is magic, and he is kind of like a ‘Joker’ player for us. He can pop up anywhere on the field, whether that be in the wide channel or the middle of the field.
“You just know that when you create an opportunity or when someone hits a gap, he is going to be on your shoulder.
“He can also scramble on defence when we need him. He is a great player and a great addition to have back in the team.”
A hybrid
With defence coach Norman Laker also in attendance at the first presser of the week, Willemse added: “I know Normie is also buzzing to have him on defence.”
The story continues below…
Hacjivah Dayimani is back doing bits for the DHL Stormers 🌩️🏉#SSRugby | #VURC pic.twitter.com/jMlsPSq95E
— SuperSport Rugby (@SSRugby) March 14, 2026
Laker responded with a smile on his face.
“We can also go seven-one now. He [Dayimani] can be a hybrid,” he said
The Stormers are currently second in the URC standings, four points behind leaders Glasgow Warriors.
The Capetonians, Ulster and Leinster are all on 41 points after 12 rounds.
@rugby365com
