Stormers Loose Forward Injury Crisis: Dobson Confirms Dayimani Concussion

The Stormers are facing a growing injury crisis in their loose forward department, with several key players sidelined. However, director of rugby John Dobson remains confident in the depth of his squad as Evan Roos returns to action.

Roos, a consistent performer for the Cape side, is back in the fold, while Hacjivah Dayimani has been ruled out after suffering a concussion. Dayimani’s absence adds to the Stormers’ growing list of unavailable loose forwards as they look to remain competitive on two fronts in the United Rugby Championship (URC) and the Investec Champions Cup.

Asked about Dayimani’s omission despite his consistent performances, Dobson confirmed that the decision was injury-related rather than a reflection of the player’s form.

“Hacjivah has got a concussion, so he’s out. I don’t know when he will return to play. I don’t know if he’s back for next week,” Dobson explained.

The Stormers director of rugby acknowledged the difficult position the team finds itself in, with injuries affecting several players in the loose forward department. Ben-Jason Dixon, Marcel Theunissen, Ruan Ackermann and Keke Morabe are also unavailable, leaving the coaching staff with limited options.

“Now we’ve got a bit of a crisis in the loose forwards,” Dobson said. “We’re lucky we can still field a loose trio of this quality, with Deon Fourie on the bench.”

Despite the mounting injury concerns, Dobson believes the situation highlights the strength of the Stormers’ squad and the importance of building sufficient depth to compete across multiple competitions.

“It’s a good reflection on our sport, and this is where we start to get tested, that we can compete on two fronts,” he added.

Dobson also provided updates on the recovery timelines of several injured players, with the latest news ranging from a lengthy spell on the sidelines to the prospect of imminent returns.

Theunissen faces the longest recovery period after undergoing back surgery. According to Dobson, the loose forward is expected to be sidelined for approximately three to four months.

Dixon, meanwhile, is dealing with a delayed concussion, leaving uncertainty over his return date.

“BJ is suffering from a delayed concussion, so there’s no clarity yet. He could be back next week, but I doubt that’s likely. He’s at least a couple of weeks away,” Dobson said.

The Stormers will be eager to have Dixon back, given his versatility as both a lock and a loose forward.

There is more encouraging news regarding Morabe, who has returned to training, while Ackermann is expected to be available next week, provided his recovery continues as planned.

Dobson described Ackermann as one of the most underrated players in the game and expressed his eagerness to welcome him back after an injury-disrupted spell.

“Ruan Ackermann is one of the most underrated players around, and he’s been unlucky with injury, so we’re keen to have him back next week,” he said.

Ackermann’s anticipated return could provide a timely boost for the Stormers as they navigate a demanding period without several experienced loose forwards.

While the immediate focus remains on managing the injury crisis, Dobson also offered an encouraging assessment of young forward Wandi Mlamba, who has shown promise and made progress in his development.

Asked whether Mlamba was ready to compete at this level and remained in contention for selection, Dobson made it clear that the youngster was firmly in the Stormers’ plans.

“Yeah, very much so. He’s close,” Dobson said.

“It’s a great roster, just unfortunately he also had a reasonably long injury, just came back, but Wandi’s very much in our plans. We think that’s going to be a special player, no question,” Dobson added.

Dobson’s comments suggest that while Mlamba may still need time to work his way into contention, the Stormers see considerable potential in the young forward.

For Dobson, the challenge is not simply to manage the current injury setbacks but also to ensure that the Stormers remain competitive while allowing returning players sufficient time to recover fully.

Despite the setbacks, the Cape side will be hoping its remaining options can rise to the challenge until the injured forwards are ready to return.