Stormers consider surprise loan move for veteran Springbok Faf de Klerk

The Stormers are considering a surprise loan move for veteran Springbok scrumhalf Faf de Klerk as they seek cover at the position. The club’s need has grown after Imad Khan suffered a serious injury against the All Blacks and Dewaldt Duvenage was hurt in his final match before retirement.

De Klerk, who has won 60 caps for South Africa, is currently playing for the Cheetahs after joining them for this year’s Currie Cup. He has impressed since returning to South African rugby, following four seasons with Japan’s Yokohama Canon Eagles.

The 33-year-old is a two-time Rugby World Cup winner with the Springboks. He started his professional career at the Lions before moving to Sale Sharks in 2017, where he developed into one of the leading scrumhalves in world rugby.

A temporary deal for De Klerk is one of the options being examined by the Stormers. Louis Schreuder is another possibility, with the one-cap Springbok currently playing for the Boland Cavaliers.

Schreuder began his career in Durban and made his provincial debut against the Lions in February 2014. He later represented the Sharks, Western Province, Bath and Newcastle Falcons.

The Stormers also retain an interest in Lions scrumhalf Haashim Pead. The former Junior Bok is under contract in Johannesburg until 2028, although limited opportunities at the Lions could create the possibility of a future move.

The injury situation has left the Stormers assessing short-term solutions while they manage the loss of Khan and Duvenage. De Klerk’s current form and experience would give the club an established option, while Schreuder and Pead represent alternative routes to strengthen the scrumhalf department.