A stint in France has helped Hacjivah Dayimani strengthen the tighter aspects of his game, and remains an exciting option across the back row and out wide for the Stormers.
Dayimani has re-signed with the Cape club until the end of this season, after his loan from Racing 92, where he felt he needed to adapt.
Known for his dynamism that thrives on the attacking DNA of the Stormers, the 2021-22 URC champion is working to become more involved across all areas of play.
And with Evan Roos unavailable to face Edinburgh in round two of the URC on Friday night, Dayimani expects to fill in at No 8 again after featuring prominently in last week’s season-opening win at Connacht.
ALSO: Rito excited but coy on Siya’s role
“I’ve been working hard this pre-season and have tried to adapt to a different type of style of play – getting more involved – because I feel my strength is with the ball in hand,” he told reporters on Monday.
“I’ve also been working a lot on defence with Norman [Laker], and so far it’s looking decent.
“Moving to France was where I actually realised that work rate is a part of the game where I would have to shore up more. I always had the ability because I was always playing in the tight.”
With the return of Springbok skipper Siya Kolisi, Dayimani acknowledged the Stormers have good depth in the back row and his versatility is a boon.
PLUS: Stormers lose Bok for Edinburgh battle
“Siya, he’s going to cover six, eight and seven. I’m going to cover wing in some of the games, and I’ll cover six and seven as well.
“It comes down to the combinations for the weekend and where the coach puts us – even this weekend. Maybe I’ll be at wing, maybe I won’t be.”
Sharing the field and team meetings with debutants has seen the 28-year-old step up and take on more responsibility, and led the team during a pre-season clash against the Bulls.
“I get asked all the questions,” he said, explaining that he needs to know the plays so he does not let younger players down.
STATE OF THE URC: Unbeaten SA teams go again
He believes has “a lot to offer” the Stormers, adding he did not get much opportunity during the loan spell.
Dayimani also lost his younger brother in December, so being close to home played a massive role coming back to Cape Town.
“This one season is just about seeing how it plays out. And then, after that, I’ll see where the world takes me.”
On this week’s challenge, Dayimani highlighted that the Stormers have analysed Edinburgh’s strengths, particularly their scrum, which has real “punch” while targeting their lineout.
Photo: Roger Sedres/Gallo Images
The post Dayimani playing it fast and loose appeared first on SA Rugby magazine.
A stint in France has helped Hacjivah Dayimani strengthen the tighter aspects of his game, and remains an exciting option across the back row and out wide for the Stormers.
The post Dayimani playing it fast and loose appeared first on SA Rugby magazine. Read More
