Deon Fourie is not done yet with the Springboks flanker signing a one-year contract extension with the Stormers.

The 38-year-old suffered what many feared would be a career-ending ankle injury after coming off the bench against Connacht in the United Rugby Championship clash in Cape Town.

However, Fourie has confirmed that the injury was not as bad as initially thought and opted to sign up for another year of rugby at least.

‘True warrior’

“Deon is a true warrior and still has a significant contribution to make for us next season, both on the field and in terms of his leadership,” said Stormers director of rugby John Dobson.

“He is a remarkable player who has done so much for this team over the years, and we know that he will give all he has in characteristic fashion when he returns next season.”

In 2022, Fourie became the oldest Springboks debutant of all-time, coming off the bench against Wales in Bloemfontein at the age of 35.

He quickly cemented his place in the Springboks squad and would play a pivotal role in their Rugby World Cup success playing 77 minutes off the bench in the final at hooker.

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Ready to go again

While the veteran forward and Cape Town favourite is disappointed that he will be missing the end of the Stormers season, he is ready to empty the tank for the team next season.

“Injuries are part of the game, and luckily this one was not as severe as it could have been,” he said.

“I’ll get right behind the boys as they head towards the play-offs and then focus on recovery and making as big an impact as I can next season.

“Playing for this team means a lot to me, and you can be sure that I’ll be giving all I can and making the most of every chance I get to pull that jersey on next season.”

Fourie was invited to the Springbok alignment camp earlier this year after missing the 2024 international season due to a knee injury, and while he will be sidelined for the start of South Africa’s Test season, he could return to the fold later on and add to his 13 caps.

His extension could see him move up the Stormers’ all-time appearance lists as he is currently ranked fourth overall (132) currently behind Steven Kitshoff (138), Frans Malherbe (152) and Brok Harris (170).

READ MORE: Springboks fly-half edging closer to South Africa exit

Src: Planetrugby.com - https://www.planetrugby.com/news/springboks-hero-deon-fourie-is-not-done-yet-extending-his-career-despite-latest-setback