Evan Roos is a man on a mission. After six months on the sidelines, the dynamic Stormers eighthman has returned to the field with a bang – crunching tackles, busting defensive lines, and carrying like a freight train. With the URC playoffs looming and the Springbok number 8 jersey potentially up for grabs, Roos is hitting his stride at just the right time.
In an press conference chat with Renaldo Bothma this week, Roos opened up about his recent form, his outlook on life and rugby post-injury, and what he’s expecting from a high-stakes clash this weekend against Italian opposition.
“There’s always room for improvement,” Evan Roos said humbly. “I don’t think you can ever be satisfied. But that six months off really did me good – mentally, physically. It gave me a fresh perspective, and I came back energised, motivated, and honestly just grateful to be out there again.”
Stats That Speak Volumes
The numbers back it up. Evan Roos has been one of the standout performers in recent weeks:
- Vs Connacht: 10 carries, 13 tackles, 30 metres gained
- Vs Ulster: 14 carries, 11 tackles, 56 metres gained
He’s not just adding muscle to the Stormers’ engine room – he’s running the show. With Jasper Wiese sidelined due to injury, the Bok No. 8 jersey is very much up for grabs, and Roos is making a compelling case.
But the 24-year-old isn’t letting future possibilities cloud his present.
“One of the reasons I’m playing better is just because I’m really enjoying being here, in the moment, with the Stormers,” he explained. “Not thinking too far ahead. I can only control what I do, the rest is out of my hands.”
Evan Roos
Hungry for the Challenge Ahead
This weekend, the Stormers face a must-win clash in Cape Town – one that could shape their playoff destiny. Roos knows the stakes and expects a fierce challenge.
“They’re a passionate side,” he said of their Italian opponents. “Very physical, very committed. We’re going to have to be at our absolute best. They’ve got quality players across the park, so this won’t be an easy one.”
It’s the kind of challenge Roos thrives on – physical, high-pressure, all-or-nothing. And with his current mindset, he’s approaching it with the same fearless intensity that made him a Stormers fan favourite and a Bok hopeful in the first place.
Maturity Meets Momentum
What’s noticeable in Roos’ recent form isn’t just the big hits or bruising carries – it’s the maturity in his game. There’s a sense of patience, clarity, and calm that’s crept in alongside the fire and physicality. The layoff, it seems, allowed him to see the game differently.
I just appreciate it more now,” he said. “You realise how lucky you are to do this for a living. And when you’re enjoying it, you play better.”
That mental shift – combined with his natural athleticism and relentless work rate – has turned Roos into one of the most influential players in the URC right now.
Bok Watch: The Roos Roar Is Back
With the Springboks preparing for a Rugby Championship campaign and a big 2025 season ahead, Roos is back in the conversation. He’s not lobbying for it. He’s not talking up his chances. He’s just letting his rugby do the talking – and it’s speaking volumes.
Evan Roos is fit, firing, and focused – and that should have South African rugby fans very, very excited.
Cape Town, get ready. The storm is brewing, and Evan Roos is right at the centre of it. 🌩️🇿🇦
