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Stormers lock Ruben van Heerden is set to earn his 50th cap for the 2022 United Rugby Championship winners when they face Connacht at DHL Stadium on Saturday afternoon.
Van Heerden joined the Cape side in 2023 and has since made 49 appearances for John Dobson’s team.
The Alberton-born second-rower says reaching this milestone is a significant moment.
"It's very special, playing 50 games for a franchise as proud as the Stormers, it's a privilege and an honour, and it's one that I'm looking forward to on Saturday," said the Stormers lock.
Although it’s still early in his career, van Heerden has already represented several top teams. He started out with the Bulls in 2016 before moving to the Sharks in 2018, where he struggled to secure a regular starting spot.
A stint with English Premiership side Exeter Chiefs followed in 2022, before he returned to South Africa on a short-term deal with the Stormers. He has since cemented his place in the squad and signed a contract extension until 2027.
"Since I've been at the Stormers, I've loved it, I think my game has grown a lot. I've learnt a lot under the coaching here, and I've settled in Cape Town."
The powerful lock goes on to say, "I'm not looking back, I think there is still a lot this team can achieve, especially in the next two years."
The Stormers currently sit 10th on the URC log and will play their remaining matches, against Connacht, Benetton, Scarlets, and Cardiff at home in Cape Town.
Van Heerden says playing at DHL Stadium makes a big difference.
"That makes a huge difference, and I don't think people from the outside realise that. It feels like ages ago since we played at DHL Stadium, but the next four games are at home, so it's a very important stretch for us. We are fighting to get into the top eight, and who knows, 5th or 4th spot may still be on the cards for us," concluded van Heerden.
