Wandisile Simelane makes himself at home with the Stormers

Wandisile Simelane joined the Stormers in early January, having completed a player swap with the Bulls that saw Cornel Smit travel up north.

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There have always been great expectations around Simelane, who has been seen as a potential future Springbok centre, but his career has stalled in recent times, with his move to the Bulls from the Lions failing to work out.

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However, there is talk that Simelane could make his heavily anticipated debut when the Stormers return to action against the Sharks on 17 February, which comes at time when the likes of Damian Willemse and Manie Libbok will be rested in accordance with SA Rugby protocols.

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WANDISILE SIMELANE MAKING AN IMPRESSION AT STORMERS TRAINING

One of Wandisile Simelane’s teammates and close friends Hacjivah Dayimani is convinced that the midfielder will fit in perfectly at the Stormers.

“I went to school with him from Grade 8, we went into hostel together and we played for the Emirates Lions together so we know each other really well and I am very excited about what could come out of Wandisile’s move to the Stormers,” said Dayimani.

“The way we play is definitely a style that suits him and I think he is going to excel playing for the Stormers. He is already loving the culture and the vibe, and of course, he’s with his best friend.”

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TALENT TO BURN

“Wandi will definitely improve here and I told him he has made the best decision ever,” Dayimani added. “Only maybe a few years later than he wanted to. He has got so much X-factor and so much talent and if he works hard and fulfills that talent I am convinced he could be one of the best players this country has ever seen. Particularly if he works on the aspects of his game that I know he will.

Simelane’s natural talent has been clear for everyone to see since his junior days, but it is the future that looks especially bright for the fleet-footed centre as he settles into life as a Stormer.

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