Snyman Jovial About Stormers Acquisitions Of Dayimani And Paulo
Stormers attacking coach Dawie Snyman brimmed at the return of Hacjivah Dayimani to the side, as well as the recent signing of Cape Town native Vernon Paulo.
Dayimani rejoined the Stormers on a short-term deal, which runs until the end of the current season after spending the last two seasons with French Pro 14 side Racing 92.
The dynamic loose forward was a key player in the team that won the inaugural Vodacom URC title in 2022 and will be available to add to his 57 caps with immediate effect.
“Hacjivah has arrived like he never left,” said an enthused Snyman.
“He’s a special player and has done some great things for us. He has slotted in nicely.”
“He is his own player and has his own attributes – linking well with the backs, amazing speed, his skillset, so he can add variation to our game, and it’s great to have him in our squad,” uttered Snyman.
A devastatingly evasive runner, who beats defenders both with his quick footwork and impressive pace, Dayimani brings intensity on both sides of the ball and a commanding presence in the line-outs – skills that could prove useful given the conditions on the Highveld.
“Our next two games are at altitude against the Lions and Bulls, so I think speed and ability to open up games are important to us,” said Snyman.
“He is always going to start somewhere, so we might see him in a different role where you have guys doing the hard work and later in the game it opens up, and we can use that space and opportunities.”
While Snyman seemed elated at the return of Dayimani, he offered high praise for new signing Vernon Paulo.
The 24-year-old Paulo, who plays hooker, was born and raised in Riversdale, and starred for the NWU Eagles in 2023, where he won the Varsity Cup before making his professional debut for the Toyota Cheetahs later that same year.
“Vernon has been impressive,” mentioned Snyman. “He is a fast learner and has a lot to add to the group, so I’m excited to see him get going when he gets his opportunity.”
