Deon Fourie signs new Stormers deal, vows to ‘empty the tank’ despite knee injury

An unfortunate leg injury ended veteran Deon Fourie’s season, but the Stormers stalwart is not ready to greet rugby yet.

While the 38-year-old won’t feature in the final stages of the United Rugby Championship (URC) and potential playoffs after breaking his leg, Fourie signed a one-year contract extension with the Cape side which means he will be back next season.

Despite the injury keeping him on the sidelines, it is not as extensive as first feared when he hobbled off the Cape Town Stadium pitch in the narrow victory over Connacht, after only being on the field for under two minutes.

The utility forward has 132 Stormers caps to his name, which puts him fourth on the all-time list behind the likes of Steven Kitshoff (138), Frans Malherbe (152), and Brok Harris (170), who also suffered what looks to be a career-ending knee injury last weekend in the runaway victory over Benetton.

“Missing the business end of the current season will be frustrating, but I am ready to empty the tank for the team I have served so well come next season,” the World Cup winner said.

“Injuries are part of the game, and luckily this one was not as severe as it could have been.

“I’ll get right behind the boys as they head toward the playoffs, and then focus on recovery and making as big an impact as possible next season.

“Playing for this team means a lot to me, and you can be sure that I’ll be giving all I can and making the most of every chance I get to pull that jersey over my head next season.”

Director of rugby John Dobson said the attitude and determination that Fourie has met his latest setback with, sums up the man he is.

He described Fourie as a true warrior who still has a significant contribution to make towards the Stormers next season on and off the field, especially with his leadership qualities.

“He is a remarkable player who has done so much for this team over the years, and we know that he will give all he has in characteristic fashion when he returns next season,” he said.