TRANSFER TALK: The Stormers reportedly signed one of their former stars after suffering a spate of injuries in the second row.
CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA – JANUARY 03: Damian Willemse and Warrick Gelant of DHL Stormers during the United Rugby Championship match between DHL Stormers and Vodacom Bulls at DHL Stadium on January 03, 2026 in Cape Town, South Africa. (Photo by Grant Pitcher/Gallo Images)
Superstar flanker Hacjivah Dayimani will rejoin the Stormers as early as this week on a short-term deal from Racing 92, according to news24.
However, @Rugby365 has reliably been informed that the duration of the deal is not yet conclusive, indicating that it could be until the end of the season or possibly longer.
He could be available for their upcoming clash against the Lions at Ellis Park on February 28.
Dayimani, who played an integral part in the Stormers’ 2021/22 United Rugby Championship-winning campaign, is only brought in as injury cover, with fellow loose forward Ruan Ackermann ruled out with a long-term injury.
There is also their ever-growing lock crisis following the loss of Salmaan Moerat and Ruben van Heerden, who are sidelined for extended periods as well.
Springbok utility forward Ben-Jason Dixon is set to move to lock from his usual No.7 position.
Dayimani’s ability to be a line-out jumper would bulk the Stormers in that department, which they’ve recently struggled in against the Sharks.
Paulo has built a reputation for accurate lineout throwing and explosiveness in open play, attributes that will be closely watched as he settles into the Stormers’ environment. His signing also helps fill the gap left by Springbok hooker Joseph Dweba, who departed for the Exeter Chiefs last season.
Before his move to Bloemfontein, Paulo came through at North-West University and was part of the Eagles squad that lifted the Varsity Cup title in 2023.
Paulo’s move was one of two notable exits from the Cheetahs announced on Monday. Tighthead prop Cameron Dawson has signed a three-year deal with the Sharks, adding further depth to their forward pack.
The Cheetahs, meanwhile, also confirmed contract extensions for hooker Marco Janse van Rensburg, loosehead prop Matome Manyama and flanker Sisonke Vumazonke as they continue to reshape their squad following the departures
