BBC Rugby Union News: Stormers Confirm Significant Player Departures Ahead of 2023/24 Season

The Stormers, a prominent team in the United Rugby Championship (URC), have announced the departure of 15 players following the conclusion of the 2023/24 season. This high-profile exodus includes several key figures who have made notable contributions to the Cape-based franchise.

Headlining the outgoing players is back-row Hacjivah Dayimani, a dynamic loose forward who has been a revelation for the Stormers since joining from the Lions in 2021. Despite his impressive performances, Dayimani has once again been overlooked by the Springbok selectors, leading him to pursue a move to French giants Racing 92.

The Stormers have also confirmed the departures of flankers Nama Xaba and Junior Pokomela, who are both linked with a switch to the Bulls for the upcoming season. Additionally, back-five forward Simon Miller is another loose forward option leaving the side.

In the front row, props Kwenzo Blose, Leon Lyons, and Lee-Marvin Mazibuko have not renewed their contracts with the Stormers, while hooker Chad Solomon has also departed the club.

The list of outgoing players also includes Kade Wolhuter, who joined the Lions during the season, and Cornel Smit, who linked up with the Bulls. Tristan Leyds, who has been involved with the South African 7s team, will not return to the Stormers next season, while scrum-half Godlen Masimla has been released upon the expiration of his contract.

Centres Chris Hollis and Jarrod Taylor have both moved to Wales during the season, while fellow midfielder Mnombo Zwelendaba will also leave the club.

Despite the significant player departures, the Stormers have already announced the re-signing of key players Steven Kitshoff and JD Schickerling ahead of the new season.

The Stormers’ director of rugby, John Dobson, has acknowledged that several players were not getting enough game time, leading to the decision to part ways with the outgoing group.

As the Stormers prepare for the upcoming URC campaign, the team will undoubtedly be looking to rebuild and strengthen their squad to maintain their position as one of the top contenders in the league.

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