Stormers lock in chief skyscraper

Ruben van Heerden has committed to calling the shots as a second-row powerhouse for the DHL Stormers after putting pen to paper on a contract extension.

The imposing 26-year-old joined the Stormers in the middle of last season and has quickly established himself as a vital cog in the pack.

Able to play at either No 4 or 5 lock, Van Heerden has stepped up this season and taken responsibility calling the lineouts, as well as making more tackles in the Vodacom URC than any other player (185).

Director of Rugby John Dobson said that it made sense to add Van Heerden’s name to the growing list of players who are committed to the team until 2027.

ICYMI – Star centre extends Stormers stay

“Ruben has been a great addition and has really been a key player over the last 18 months, so we are very happy that he will be with us for at least three more years.

“He has shown impressive leadership qualities this season in calling the line-outs and was rightly rewarded with his inclusion in the recent Springbok alignment camp.

“We look forward to seeing where Ruben can take his game within our system over the next three seasons,” he said.

Van Heerden said that the Stormers environment has allowed him to take his game to the next level, which made it an easy decision to commit to a long-term contract.

“I could not be happier with where my rugby is going and the new life that I have in Cape Town.

“This is a special group of players and coaches here and I want to be part of what is coming next for this team,” he said.

For more, see thestormers.com