Hacjivah Dayimani is out to prove he can mix it with the bruisers as the DHL Stormers loose forward continues to push for a maiden Springbok call-up.
Dayimani has enjoyed another successful season with the DHL Stormers, helping the Cape side secure a home playoff in the Champions Cup.
In the Stormers’ most recent home game against Sale Sharks, Dayimani beat 10 defenders, the most for a forward in a Champions Cup game in a man of the match performance.
According to Opta stats, Dayimani shares the record with incumbent Springbok No 8 Jasper Wiese, who has a stronger reputation as a destructive ball-carrier.
In an interview with Sunday newspaper Rapport, Dayimani says the perception that he is just a sleek runner who waits on the wing for the ball is wrong.
“There is a massive narrative about me and I’m trying to change it,” Dayimani told Rapport.
“I want to show that I am confrontational, can beat defenders by being physical. By knocking down players and running over players. That’s what I add to my game.
“As for my Bok chances, I can only try to improve and also try to be a more versatile player,” Dayimani added. “I can only do what I can do and hopefully that will be enough.”
Dayimani added that loose forwards have to do more than just run into players these days to put their team on the front foot.
“Rugby is slowly changing. It’s not just about that anymore. It’s also about the defenders you beat, helping your team go forward and about momentum.
“If you run into two players and they stop you in your tracks, you’re not doing much for your team.
“But if you run off them at a soft shoulder and get over the advantage line, I prefer that. The defence then has to get ready again behind the advantage line for the next phase.”
Photo: EJ Langner/Gallo Images