Last weekend, the young player made a significant impact after coming off the bench, tackling an unusual situation when the Stormers lost three hookers during their encounter with the Scarlets.

Reinach recognized the challenges presented by the circumstances, particularly for a team that values its set piece as the cornerstone of its strategy.

“We are a team that thrives on the set piece. That’s where we begin our build-up and structure our game,” Reinach stated.

The absence of three hookers forced the Stormers to adjust on the field, disrupting a critical element of their gameplay and demanding that the players find solutions amid tough conditions.

“Experiencing the loss of three hookers is unprecedented, but it presents a valuable opportunity for the team as we learn to solve problems in real-time. It took us a while to regain our footing, which signifies our ongoing development as a team,” he noted.

Despite the upheaval, Reinach was struck by Ahmed’s performance, as the young talent not only scored two late tries to clinch the win over Scarlets but also exhibited remarkable composure under pressure.

“Yaq had a standout performance. At just 20, he has an impressive rugby intellect and instinct. He plays well and has confidence in himself, which definitely paid off,” Reinach commented.

For Reinach, Ahmed’s age is not a critical factor anymore. What stands out is the confidence he brings onto the field and the trust he has gained from his teammates.

“Age doesn’t really matter; the team supports him, and he believes in himself, which is great,” Reinach added.

On Wednesday, Ahmed was included among six uncapped players in a 37-man Springbok squad for the upcoming Nations Championship in November.

Reinach stated that the advancement of younger players is a reflection of the solid structures present within the Springboks and Junior Springboks setups, where players are encouraged to elevate their standards to meet the rigors of international rugby.

“It’s fantastic to see the emergence of new talent, and it highlights the effective methods we employ at the Springboks and Junior Boks. Players are under significant pressure to enhance their performances, and they are stepping up,” he remarked.

He further noted that many young players have risen through the national ranks and are adapting to the pressure and honor of representing South Africa.

“Numerous younger players have successfully navigated the system and are learning to manage the pressure and privilege of playing, and it’s our responsibility to guide them,” he explained.

Reinach also highlighted the development of fellow Stormers player Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu as an example of how swiftly confidence can flourish in the Springbok setting.

“Sacha arrived a bit uncertain, but he has transformed since then. He now exudes confidence in group dynamics, which reflects in his gameplay. His self-assuredness positively influences us all,” he elaborated.

For Reinach, Ahmed’s rise is proof of a system that effectively prepares young talents for the challenges of the international arena. Like Feinberg-Mngomezulu, the next step for Ahmed will be to keep enhancing his confidence and converting his potential into steady performances, both at the provincial and international levels.