Stormers speedster Suleiman Hartzenberg out to end 2023 on a high

By SABC Sport
28th December 2023

DHL Stormers speedster Suleiman Hartzenberg is keen to finish 2023 on a positive note when they face the Sharks in Saturday's URC clash at DHL Stadium.

The Stormers beat the Bulls in a nail-biting North-South derby last week and Hartzenberg featured prominently on the right wing.

The electric outside back burst onto the scene last season, dazzling fans with his pace, skill and try-scoring prowess in the Vodacom URC and Investec Champions Cup, but he's played only three matches in all competitions this season having recently returned from a long-term injury.

Though the knee injury, suffered while on duty for Western Province in the Currie Cup, temporarily paused his impressive debut campaign, the 20-year-old is thrilled to be back as the Stormers gear up for another decisive derby.

"Playing the Bulls at DHL Stadium was amazing because the amount of support we got there was ridiculous, and we loved it – the atmosphere, the vibe, it was really cool," he said.

"On the field, for us it was all about what we needed to do and sticking to our plans, and understanding that sometimes things might not always go our way but still find ways to apply pressure.

"It was important to secure the win because we had to take the momentum from the La Rochelle game two weeks ago so that we can keep on building for what's to come. It also helped put us in a more favourable position for what we want to achieve this season."

The Stormers are looking for a third win on the trot before a week's break, and host a determined Sharks side.

Set to face double World Cup winner Makazole Mapimpi, Hartzenberg is excited to test himself against the Springbok flyer.

"I think it's going to be a good challenge for me, as I get to play against one of the best in the country.

"However, in saying that, I'm not going to focus too much on it as I will be putting my attention on what I need to do for the team and what my role is.

"Regardless of their wins this season, I think it's going to be a tough game. We are up against a quality side, but we are more focused on what our roles are and what we need to do.

"I think for us, it's massively important to keep improving each week and to keep Cape Town smiling, and a key target for me is to settle in even more and try to end the year on a good note."