Salmaan Moerat Confirms French Move From DHL Stormers

MOERAT HEADS TO FRANCE

Salmaan Moerat's days in a DHL Stormers jersey are numbered. The lock will depart Cape Town at season's end to pursue a contract in France, the union confirmed today.

It marks the end of a storied Western Cape story. Moerat came through the provincial system as captain of Paarl Boys High before leading DHL Western Province's U18 side at the 2016 Craven Week.

The 27-year-old has been a cornerstone of the Stormers' set-piece dominance in recent seasons, establishing himself as one of the country's most reliable lineout operators. His departure leaves the Cape franchise hunting for depth in the engine room as they eye their own European ambitions in the United Rugby Championship.

Moerat joins a growing exodus of South African talent heading north this off-season, trading Super Rugby's intensity for the Test-match theatre of the Top 14. For the Stormers, it represents another gap to fill in their forward pack after a challenging campaign.

The specifics of Moerat's French destination remain under wraps, but the move represents a significant scalp for European recruitment. His physical dominance at set-piece and proven durability across a gruelling domestic season make him an attractive prospect for France's heavyweight provinces.

For Moerat, it's a chance to test himself in a new rugby market and potentially boost his international credentials. The move comes at a pivotal moment for South African rugby, with player retention increasingly difficult as overseas contracts grow more lucrative.

Moerat will complete the 2024 season with the Stormers before making the switch.