Stormers coach John Dobson admits he has been surprised by how strongly Deon Fourie has returned from serious injury. LINDIZ VAN ZILLA reports.
The 39-year-old flank was sidelined for the best part of two years with an ACL tear in April 2024, a tibia fracture in April 2025, and a torn bicep suffered against the Scarlets last October.
However, he returned to action with a barn-storming performance against the Vodacom Bulls at Loftus Versfeld a month ago and has not looked back.
“I didn’t expect him to come back this good,” Dobson said ahead of the Stormers’ Vodacom URC clash against Connacht on Saturday. “He’s in incredible form.”
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Fourie’s character and leadership was crucial in lifting the Stormers after three consecutive derby losses against the Sharks (twice) and Lions which threatened to derail their campaign.
His impact at the breakdown has also been crucial, particularly alongside rising star Paul de Villiers.
“It works so well,” Dobson explained. “What one can do in 20 or 30 minutes, the other matches. It is remarkable and it’s worked for us in three or four games.”
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The Stormers coach pointed to the Bulls and Toulon games as examples of the impact of using the duo to provide firepower throughout the course of the match, and hinted at using both simultaneously.
“There’s a dream of mine to have them on the field together,” Dobson said. “I wouldn’t like to be the opposition breakdown coach.
“But then Rito [Hlungwani, Stormers forwards coach] looks at me because neither of them are sort of tall timber.”
Fourie said he had been impressed by De Villiers’ leadership qualities.
“He’s not scared to raise his hand or speak up. He’s already captained sides and shows real leadership.”
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Photo: Ashley Vlotman/Gallo Images
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Stormers coach John Dobson admits he has been surprised by how strongly Deon Fourie has returned from serious injury.
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