Share

Ioane wary of Naqelevuki

Stephen Nell - Die Burger

Cape Town - Reds flyer Digby Ioane will do his best to stay out of Sireli Naqelevuki’s way if the Stormers declare the giant Fijian fit for Friday night’s Super 14 clash at Newlands.

Ioane’s impressive try for the Reds in the weekend’s 20-33 defeat to the Bulls at Loftus Versfeld will serve as a warning to the Stormers what the Aussies can do if their outside backs are released in space or get broken field.

Nick Koster played on the left wing for the Stormers against the Sharks at the weekend and performed well on debut. However, the Sharks did not attempt to exploit his inexperience and with the pressure squarely on the Stormers after their defeat, a fit Naqelevuki should have the inside track to wear the No 11 jersey.

“All of them (Stormers wings) are good players, especially the Fijian. He’s a big guy and I don’t want to get in his way. I’ll try my best!” Ioane said with a laugh.

Should the Stormers opt for Koster again, the Reds will probably target him.

Flyhalf Quade Cooper and inside centre Berrick Barnes can both kick on him, while Wallaby wings Ioane and Peter Hynes are among the visitors’ strengths.

“We’ll look at that,” said Ioane when he was asked whether they would attempt to pressurise Koster if he plays.

“We’re still studying the Stormers’ game. He (Koster) can be a Jonah Lomu – a forward retreaded into a back. Anything can happen.

“He may dominate the game and break the line, particularly because he is a forward. You have to place him under pressure quickly because once he builds momentum he can be dangerous.”

Ioane has played four tests for Australia. He made his Wallaby debut against Wales in 2007.

“My focus is currently just on performing well for the Reds. I still have a lot to learn,” said Ioane.

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Voting Booth
Should Siya Kolisi keep the captaincy as the Springboks build towards their World Cup title defence in 2027?
Please select an option Oops! Something went wrong, please try again later.
Results
Yes! Siya will only be 36 at the next World Cup. He can make it!
25% - 1273 votes
No! I think the smart thing to do is start again with a younger skipper ...
29% - 1471 votes
I'd keep Siya captain for now, but look to have someone else for 2027.
45% - 2250 votes
Vote
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE