‘Not The Finished Product’: Dobson Admits Selection Headaches As Stormers’ Teen Sensation Shines
The talent and composure of rookie Yaqeen Ahmed have drawn praise from Stormers director of rugby John Dobson, although he acknowledges that the youngster still has plenty to learn as he continues his development.
Dobson also admitted that accommodating both Ahmed and Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu in the same backline could present a selection challenge.
Asked whether he was happy with Ahmed’s progress, Dobson was quick to temper expectations, pointing out that expecting a player fresh out of matric to take control of a game was a significant ask.
“To expect a guy out of matric to boss a game is a big ask. He has maturity, but he will need more rugby to learn the real driving of the game. He is not the finished product by any stretch of the imagination. But what a cool head and what a talent,” he said.
The possibility of Ahmed and Feinberg-Mngomezulu featuring in the same backline presents another interesting selection conundrum.
Dobson explained that Feinberg-Mngomezulu is determined to play at flyhalf, while he is equally convinced that Ahmed is a natural No. 10. The emergence of Markus Muller, who delivered an outstanding performance against Ulster at DHL Stadium in the Vodacom United Rugby Championship, further complicates matters.
“Sacha is adamant about playing 10, but I’m also convinced Yaqeen is a 10. Markus Muller was outstanding on Saturday in everything he did, so then you might have to leave him out, and I’m not sure about that. So it is a challenge,” Dobson admitted.
However, Dobson believes the demands of a gruelling fixture schedule, coupled with international rugby commitments, will create opportunities for everyone. As a result, the selection dilemma may not be as difficult to manage as it initially appears.
Looking ahead, the squad will enjoy a short break before turning its attention to the next assignment against the Sharks in Durban on 8 December.
“We have about 12 players on a plane (for Springbok duty) Sunday night. The players will get two weeks off, and then we’ll prepare for 8 December,” he said.
For now, Ahmed’s development remains an exciting prospect. Dobson is clearly impressed by the youngster’s composure and natural ability, while recognising that experience and an understanding of game management will come with time.
