The Bloemfontein-bred tighthead prop, Neethling Fouché, has extended his contract with the Cape Town-based franchise.

The former Cheetah has been with the Stormers since 2018 and will continue to play for them until at least 2028.

Stormers forwards coach Rito Hlungwani told OFM Sport that Fouché is more than just a good player.

“Firstly, I must put it on the table that he’s quite an intelligent, smart guy. I think he’s got a master’s degree in psychology, you know,” said Hlungwani.

“So, you must know, when you speak to a guy like Neethling, you must know your stuff, and he challenges you in a very good way.

“But in terms of personality, he is just a nice guy to have around. Everyone loves him in the team. And the nice thing – what I really enjoy the most – is that he’s able to switch from being this fun, bubbly guy to quickly entering work mode. He can differentiate so easily, and that makes him quite unique.

Neethling Fouché. Photo: Cheetahs

“We really enjoy his company, his contribution to the team, and the way he thinks about the game and asks questions.

“He is just a highly intelligent player with a great personality, and he knows how to balance fun with serious work.”

This is the second major signing by the franchise after they confirmed the signing of Bloemfontein-born, two-time World Cup winner, Cobus Reinach, last week.

Meanwhile, on Saturday at 19:00, the Irish giants, Leinster, will tackle the Stormers in Dublin in the URC.

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek cg