Deon Fourie reflects on 'where it all began' ahead of Western Province milestone

Deon Fourie will become only the second player to run out in 100 matches for both the Stormers and Western Province when he takes to the field in the Currie Cup this afternoon.

He will lead WP in their final match of the campaign against neighbours the Boland Cavaliers at the DHL Stadium (2.45pm start), as they look for a sparkling end to an otherwise dismal tournament. They are still winless after six games, and Fourie will hope to lead his side to victory as he notches up 100 caps for the blue-and-white hoops.

Fourie, 38, will most likely play in his final WP game ahead of the start of the United Rugby Championship and joins Brok Harris, who recently retired, on that select list of players who’ve played 100 games for both Cape sides.

The World Cup winner can look back on a stellar career with Province. Thirteen years ago, he led the side to the title after they defeated the Sharks in Durban, and since his debut back in 2006, he has collected various accolades with the team.

“Every time we won the Currie Cup, we were the underdogs, and I was quite fortunate to be part of those teams,” Fourie said ahead of his 100th clash.

“I remember that final against the Sharks in 2012. They had a Bok-laden team that we played against, and we pulled through. The same with the URC’s first year, where the odds were against us. We came through and won it. Those are the most enjoyable things, to win a trophy when people do not give you credit or don’t think you will achieve it. Those are the nice memories for me.

“I was fortunate to also play in the very first match at the DHL Stadium in 2010 and to score a try. Everything is coming back to where it all started for me.”

Fourie joked that having 100 games to put on his rugby CV will hopefully help him get another contract next season if John Dobson and the Stormers do not want to sign him again.

It’s not every day that a player gets the privilege and opportunity to play 100 games for two teams, and the veteran is hopeful he has contributed in some way to the sides he served faithfully. While he isn’t signing out just yet, he wants to make one more meaningful contribution to WP as they take on the Cavaliers in the much-anticipated Western Cape derby on Saturday afternoon.

“I felt quite good in my return against the Pumas, and it was unexpected that the lungs were holding out. That went well. I definitely want to get more minutes in and continue to build on my form in the final game.

“I joked last week that I would like a couple of minutes with Paul (de Villiers, a young flanker) on the field so that he can take a bit off my hands when it comes to the breakdown. That way we can share the load of putting our heads into the rucks. He has a big future ahead of him and is a great leader. There is plenty more to come from him.

“The players are all willing to learn, and I could see it this past week. The young guys are keen to play for Western Province. Yes, we haven’t had the results, but it will pay off in a few years’ time. We will then look back and say that it all started in 2025 with the Currie Cup.”