In a recent turn of events, Cheetahs' coach Frans Steyn has made it crystal clear that Faf de Klerk, the dynamic Springbok scrumhalf, is not making a move to the Stormers. This decision slams shut the rumors sparked by John Dobson, the Stormers' director of rugby, who last week hinted at De Klerk as a possible recruit for the upcoming season.
The Stormers were eyeing De Klerk to beef up their scrumhalf options, especially after Dewaldt Duvenage hung up his boots and Imad Khan suffered a severe knee injury. Yet, despite their predicament, Steyn's resolve is firm.
"We aren’t going to do it,"
Steyn emphasized that the conversation about De Klerk’s potential shift occurred prematurely, with discussions leaking before any formal agreement could be pursued in Bloemfontein.
"There were a number of things that still needed to happen before we could take negotiations any further," explained Steyn. He also mentioned that the team’s main sponsor, Toyota, has significant influence over such decisions.
Moreover, Steyn suggested alternative players for the Stormers, pointing out Louis Schreuder from Boland and others from Griquas as viable options. It appears the Stormers are not without alternatives, despite the setback with De Klerk.
In a concluding remark, Steyn reiterated De Klerk's status with the Free State team, putting to rest any lingering speculation about the transfer.
"Faf isn’t going to the Cape. He is staying with Free State."
This firm stance from Steyn not only underscores the importance of De Klerk to the Cheetahs but also highlights the complexities and behind-the-scenes negotiations that govern rugby transfers. As the teams prepare for their upcoming contests, all eyes will be on how each adapts to their respective challenges, particularly the Stormers as they navigate their roster changes without De Klerk.
