Haashim Pead says he couldn’t be more excited to join the Stormers and represent his hometown team.
The Stormers confirmed on Wednesday that the 21-year-old scrumhalf had put pen to paper on a four-year contract after the Lions agreed to release him from a deal that was not set to expire until 2028.
Pead has already started training with the Stormers’ non-travelling squad in Cape Town and will be available to make his debut once the team returns from its two-match URC tour to Ireland and Scotland.
“Joining the Stormers is an incredible opportunity, and I couldn’t be more excited to put on the jersey,” Pead said.
“The brand of rugby they play, the culture within the squad, and the vision of the coaching staff really align with where I want to go as a player. I can’t wait to be integrated into the environment and start building with the group.
“Cape Town is home, and my roots in the Bo-Kaap mean everything to me. Growing up, you dream of representing your hometown team and playing in front of the community that raised you.
“Coming back to the Western Cape and having my family and community close by gives this move a truly special significance for me.
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Pead thanked the Lions for the part they played in his career as well as those who made the move to Cape Town possible.
“My time with the Lions played an important role in my development, and I’m grateful to all of those who supported me during my time in Johannesburg. Leaving was not an easy process, but as I take this next step in my career, I wish the Lions nothing but the best for the future.
“I want to extend a sincere thank you to everyone who worked behind the scenes to make this move happen, including my mentor Abdullah Solomons, who played such an integral role.
“Another special thanks goes to my agency, Roc Nation Sports International, who played an integral role throughout this process. Without them, this would not have been possible. Their guidance and commitment were crucial in ensuring this dream move became a reality.”
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Pead hopes the move provides more opportunities at URC level, having had to compete with Springbok Morné van den Berg and Nico Steyn for minutes at the Lions.
“My focus now is entirely on putting in the work, earning my place, and competing for consistent game time. I know nothing will be handed to me, but I’m eager to prove myself on the field and to make a meaningful contribution to the team’s goals for the upcoming season.”
It’s official. Haashim Pead is back home and ready to go. #inittogether pic.twitter.com/ACVgXuDyw2
— DHL Stormers (@THESTORMERS) September 23, 2026
Stormers director of rugby John Dobson believes Pead is an ideal fit for Project 2029, which seeks to position the Cape side among the leading rugby clubs in the world.
“Haashim is a rising star and as a local lad who fits our game model perfectly, it made sense on every level for us to bring him back to Cape Town.
“He is a gifted athlete who has an incredibly high ceiling, and we look forward to seeing how he develops here with us.
“This is a four-year deal, so there is a big commitment from both ourselves and Haashim to Project 2029 and our goals as a club.”
Photo: Stormers
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Haashim Pead says he couldn’t be more excited to join the Stormers and represent his hometown team.
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