Stormers' utility back Suleiman Hartzenberg is eager to increase his playtime during the Currie Cup following his return in the recent substantial victory of Stormers XXIII over Sharks XV. After clocking more than 60 minutes last week, he is now gearing up to take on the Cheetahs in the fourth round at Athlone Stadium this Sunday.
Hartzenberg has been on a gradual comeback trail after a hand fracture late last season limited him to only seven appearances between the Vodacom URC and the Investec Champions Cup in the 2025-26 season.
"Coming back from injury, the important thing right now is to get game time,"
The 23-year-old expressed his focus on seizing the opportunity to showcase his skills in the Currie Cup to ensure he remains in optimal shape for whatever the new season throws his way.
Hartzenberg's career surged four years ago before a knee injury in April 2023 during his tenure with Western Province slowed his progress. However, he recently underwent a clean-out operation six weeks ago and is optimistic about his recovery.
"I had a clean-out about six weeks ago, but I’m back from that so it will be good."
Known for his speed and high-quality finishing, Hartzenberg faces tough competition for a starting position. However, he aims to utilize his adaptability to fight for a place, expressing readiness to play as a centre if required.
This week is particularly thrilling for the Stormers, as they prepare to face the All Blacks at Cape Town Stadium on Friday. Hartzenberg and his team have been training alongside the Stormers XXIII, under the watchful eyes of both camps.
Stormers XXIII assistant coach Helmut Lehmann shared insights into the joint training sessions at the High Performance Centre, noting the palpable excitement as they approach the clash with New Zealand.
"We are sharing the same place every day at the HPC, and there is excitement on the Currie Cup side … getting into this New Zealand-Stormers match week," said Lehmann, asserting that the Cheetahs' playstyle, reminiscent of the fast-paced All Blacks, helps in their preparatory work.
In a bold statement that underscores the intensity of the upcoming game, an unknown source within the Stormers camp remarked:
"Stormers’ job is to beat the s**t out of All Blacks."
Hartzenberg is also buoyed by the mentorship of forwards coach Lehmann, who besides fine-tuning tactical play, instills the mental toughness required to excel against high-caliber teams like the All Blacks.
Looking ahead, Hartzenberg's strategy is clear: capitalize on every chance on the field, proving that he is not only a contender on the wing but can be equally impactful in the central positions. As the Stormers gear up for their epic showdown, it's clear that they are not just playing for points but for pride, ready to make a statement against the formidable New Zealand squad.
