Simelane Lauds Coaches And Teammates For Keeping Him In Cape Town
Wandisile Simelane has proved that his game is built for the setup and DNA of the United Rugby Championship’s table-topping Stormers after being freshly rewarded with a recent contract extension.
True to its long-standing history, the current iteration of the Stormers is blessed with an array of fleet-footed, charismatic talent that dazzles the local crowds.
The Johannesburg-born, former Jeppe High student swapped life in the Highveld for Cape Town after beginning his career at the Lions before joining the Bulls.
Amidst an uncertain career until this point, Simelane has established himself as a key member of the Stormers setup and now regards Cape Town as home.
“Every athlete experiences ups and downs. I experienced it at the Lions and the Bulls,” he said.
“I’ve found a place where I am comfortable on and off the field. Guys are around me that have helped me and believe in me, so this is home away from home.”
With the ability to cover both centre and fullback with aplomb – and even showing prowess at wing when needed – his versatility has become a valuable asset and has allowed him to grow towards the potential his coaches have been eager to showcase.
“My versatility has helped my growth a lot. The way you see the game at fullback and the way you see the game at centre is almost like two completely different sports,” Simelane admitted.
“There are guys around me like Damian (Willemse) who can do both, and Warrick (Gelant) who plays fullback very well. I’m just grateful to have grown my game in both positions.”
Boasting a ferocious step that would embarrass the best of defensive backs, Simelane stated he does have a preferred position but enjoys the challenge of playing where space is minimal.
“Preferred will always be 13, but I don’t mind playing fullback,” he said cheekily.
“I do enjoy more space from fullback, but there is more to it than that. Lots of hard work and technicalities need to be done before you see the wonderful tries – space is good, but I still prefer 13,” added Simelane.
With Simelane signing a contract extension until at least 2028, Project 2029 seems to be in full swing as the Stormers seek to hold onto their most prized assets.
Asked by Sportswire about what has contributed to him penning a new deal, Simelane said that while there are many, the important factors were those around him.
“There are so many factors. We have brilliant coaches and players around us, it’s been a wonderful place for me to grow as a player, and I’m just looking forward to the next couple of years in Cape Town.”
Simelane’s opponents this weekend are the Sharks – a side he has previously trained with but did not play a game for – and he will be eager to not only continue to impress but to add to the two tries he has scored in the URC this season.
