Kitshoff and Moerat can be ‘rock-solid’
STORMERS coach John Dobson says having the calibre of players like Steven Kitshoff and Salmaan Moerat leading the team “will provide a rock-solid foundation” for the Stormers going forward.
Kitshoff, who signed a contract extension with Western Province Professional Rugby for three more years, has led the team regularly and has been appointed Stormers captain, with Moerat vice-captain.
“Steven is a world-class player on top of his game who has the respect of everyone in the rugby world. To have a person of his calibre and deep connection to this team as our talisman going forward is immense,” Dobson said.
“‘Both Steven and Salmaan are proud products of our youth system and are inspirational figures both in our squad and for our faithful supporters. Their decision to remain with the Stormers is testimony to the good developmental work that has been carried out over the decades. We look forward to continue building off the rock-solid foundation they will provide for our team.”
Kitshoff has racked up 101 caps for the Stormers and made his debut in 2012 as a 19-year-old.
Moerat, although only 23, also has extensive leadership experience, having captained SA Schools, the Junior Springboks and Western Province Under-19. He also led the Stormers in a couple of their Preparation Series matches this year. He is one of a number of players who are still under contract with WPPR until at least 2022, along with the likes of Herschel Jantjies, Warrick Gelant, Ruhan Nel, Sergeal Petersen, Marcel Theunissen, David Meihuizen and Rikus Pretorius.
Kitshoff is the latest player to officially extend his time in the Cape, with players such as Damian Willemse, Scarra Ntubeni, Frans Malherbe, Seabelo Senatla, Neethling Fouche, Sazi Sandi, Leon Lyons, Nama Xaba, Kwenzo Blose and Evan Roos all committing their futures to Western Province Professional Rugby.