Stephen Nell

Cape Town – From villain to hero.

That was the story of Fijian wing Sireli Naqelevuki at Newlands on Saturday after his inspired performance in the Stormers’ 37-13 Super 14 victory over the Hurricanes.

Naqelevuki, 29, cost Western Province a place in last year’s Currie Cup final with his high tackle on the Blue Bulls’ Jaco Pretorius in the semifinal at Newlands. The writing consequently appeared to be on the wall for his career in the Cape.

But just like Luke Watson, who was jeered at the start of last season at Newlands following his controversial statements about the Springbok jersey, it appears as if Naqelevuki is set to win passionate Cape supporters over again with his performances.

Saturday’s crowd of 44 530 was on their feet when Naqelevuki scored the first of the Stormers’ five tries and then fed Joe Pietersen for the second.

He also flattened the Hurricanes’ All Black star Cory Jane in one run. The concussed fullback was stretchered from the field.

“It was a good effort by the whole team. I want to thank the supporters and God,” said Naqelevuki as he received his cheque as man of the match.

Naqelevuki told Stormers director of coaching Rassie Erasmus before the season kicked off that he would like to finish his career in the Cape on a high. He is planning on leaving WP after the Super 14.

However, his performances over the last two weekends have been so good that supporters may well look at him through different eyes. If he continues his form, they will even hope that WP can extend his contract.

Stormers coach Allister Coetzee said after the game that Naqelevuki is a world class player and that he is delighted to see him play with confidence again.