Stormers, Springboks flank Ben-Jason Dixon bury the hatchet after contract arbitration

While the weather in Cape Town has been rather unpleasant, it seems like the animosity between the Stormers and Springboks loose forward Ben-Jason Dixon is a thing of the past.

The Stormers were involved in a bit of a standoff with Dixon, who was reportedly looking to get out of his current contract. The two parties were in disagreement over the interpretation of the wording of a release clause in his current deal, which runs until 2027.

However, the Stormers announced on Friday that Dixon will remain with the Cape side for at least the next two years following the outcome of an independent arbitration. The independent process found Dixon’s contract is binding, with no revisions applicable.

Dixon has been out of action for a few months because of a wrist injury and was not considered for the Springboks' matches against the Barbarians, Italy and Georgia.

Stormers director of rugby John Dobson said that with the arbitration behind them, he looks forward to seeing Dixon give his all for the team, as he has done throughout his career.

“Ben-Jason is one of the most committed rugby players around and has been a vital cog in our team for some time. With this now settled, we know that he will continue to give everything on and off the field for us,” he said.

Dixon said that with the matter now resolved, he is looking forward to making an impact on the field once again.

“I’m really grateful that both sides had the chance to bring everything to the table through arbitration and get clarity going forward. With this behind us, I’m looking forward to getting back to doing what I love — giving my best for the Stormers.”

Meanwhile, centre Wandisile Simelane has signed a contract extension with the Stormers after first arriving in the Cape on-loan from the Bulls.

The fleet-footed centre has been a regular in the Stormers' backline in the United Rugby Championship this season, and Dobson expects to see Simelane continue to grow as a midfield force.

“Wandi has got incredible natural talent which has marked him as a dangerous player from a young age. What we have been particularly impressed with is his willingness to learn and develop his game.

“He has an incredibly high ceiling and we are looking forward to seeing what he can do and add to our team going forward,” he said.

Simelane said that the decision to extend his contract was an easy one given the unique environment in Cape Town.

“At the Stormers, players are encouraged to express themselves and make the most of their abilities.

“I feel that I have grown as a player since moving here and I’m looking forward to seeing where this team can go,” he said.

@JohnGoliath82