Herschel Jantjies’ excellent support running and ability to intercept served the Stormers well during the early stages of their 2020 campaign, writes JON CARDINELLI.

The Stormers have battled on attack for some time. Indeed, it says much for Jantjies’ individual prowess that he was able to force his way into the Springbok set-up last season – and subsequently the World Cup squad – in spite of the Cape side’s limp performances with ball in hand.

The multitalented scrumhalf certainly made an impression for the Cape franchise in the initial stages of the 2020 season. The Stormers forwards controlled the gainline in the early fixtures, and it was on the back of that dominance that Jantjies struck via a well-timed intercept.

STANDOUT STORMERS FORWARD: Pieter-Steph du Toit

His support running has long been one of his strengths. Indeed, how often have we seen Jantjies popping up at the crucial moment to accept the final pass over the past couple of seasons? Like the All Blacks and Chiefs No 9 Brad Weber, Jantjies is so good at following the ball carrier and identifying a scoring chance.

After seven rounds, Jantjies – along with wing Sergeal Petersen – was the Stormers’ top tryscorer with three touchdowns. Like Weber, Jantjies boasts some impressive running stats, with 135m accumulated from just 12 carries.

STANDOUT BULLS BACK: Rosko Specman

Sadly, the scrumhalf may not feature for the Stormers again in 2020.

The Vodacom Super Rugby tournament has been put on hold due to the threat of the coronavirus. Meanwhile, the Stormers have confirmed that Jantjies fractured his fibula in the recent match against the Sharks, and will be sidelined for the next three months.

STANDOUT SHARKS BACK: Aphelele Fassi

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