Steven Kitshoff prepares for emotional Stormers swansong

The Rugby World Cup-winning loosehead prop will join Ulster after the 2023 World Cup in France, ending a 16-year stint that began at youth level back in 2005. 

‘Kitsie’, who led the Stormers to the United Rugby Championship trophy in their first season in 2022 and now again prepares to lead the team in the semi-final a year later, says every game brings him closer to his swansong.

"We spoke about it, maybe, six months ago and the whole season was still ahead of us, and we were just going week after week. But now, with this handful of games left, you never know if you slip up and lose out on the rest of the competition," said Kitshoff.

"So, for me, it is becoming a thing where it's do-or-die. So, as important as the URC final was last year is this Harlequins game for me this weekend because that just extends my stay at the Stormers.

"So, if we get a win this weekend, I've got another opportunity to wear the Stormers jersey. Have another win and then just get as many games as possible while I'm still available for the team."

In December 2022, the forward became the Stormers' joint-most capped player with 124 appearances alongside fellow front-rower Frans Malherbe. 

He leaves the Union with several Currie Cups and the URC title, and admits the last few weeks have been a reality check.

"It is becoming a bit emotional and driving to the HPC every day, I'm definitely going to miss that N1 – luckily driving against traffic, but I'm going to miss that scenery and coming to work every day," he added.

"I'm just excited at the way that this team has performed and matured over the last two years, especially in this European competition. So, for me, it's just to take that as far as possible while I'm still present, and hopefully, leave the jersey in a better place."