by Stormers star Hacjivah Dayimani is looking to showcase his skills and expression on the pitch ahead of Friday’s massive North-South derby against the Bulls in the United Rugby Championship.
Dayimani has been in fine form at number eight in the absence of Evan Roos, earning a man of the match award in the European Cup against London Irish.
The loose forward showed his extreme pace for a long man when he scored a try on a break from across the halfway line leaving all defenders in his wake.
North-South derby
For now, attention turns back to what is always a huge game against the Bulls and their first meeting since last season’s URC final where the Stormers took the title.
“It’s always a great game, and it’s great to compete,” said Dayimani. “Every game, I’m growing, so the most important thing is to keep trying to get my best game, especially against the Bulls.”
Dayimani’s game revolves around her running prowess, with both pace and power, which opens up opportunities for teammates she connects with using an impressive skill set.
However, he has learned to adjust his game when time or circumstances limit his natural influence.
“Sometimes the type of rugby that is played doesn’t allow me to get into my game, either because of the way the opponents are playing or because of the weather,” said Dayimani.
“For my type of game, it was always about racing, and in the past, when it rained, I struggled.
“I still try to beat my man when he’s wet, but I’ve also adapted, doing more work off the ball, in defense and in lineouts.
“I’m just trying to express myself more in the field as I try to find work and do what I have to do.”
The Stormers have played in various weather conditions this season, from sunny South Africa to rainy Wales to freezing France, and Dayimani has learned a lot through experiences.
“Playing abroad was an eye-opener, especially with the weather, and against Clermont it was very cold and the crowd was hostile – we’re not used to people booing us for 80 minutes,” he said.
“With Deon Fourie handled and Evan Roos absent, I try to make sure everything runs as smoothly as possible. A leader is not one who just talks, but who energizes the way he plays and makes the team want to follow him.
“Giving the team the ball forward is the best form of leadership you can bring,” he added.
Different approach
Jake White rested a string of Bulls stars over the past two weeks to target the North-South derby as the Stormers played their superstars. Dayimani, however, isn’t worried and knows the Stormers will have to bring their A-game.
“I think the plans for the Vodacom Bulls and the plans for us are completely different. We just want to get as much rugby together as possible,” she said.
“There was a lot of hype, but I just know that when Friday comes, it doesn’t matter who is rested or not; we’ll bring our A-game.
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The article United Rugby Championship: Dangerous Dayimani wants to continue expressing himself with the colors of the Stormers appeared for the first time on Planetrugby.com.
