RUGBY TRANSFERS: FRENCH GIANTS ‘POACH’ ETZEBETH-ESQUE SCHOOLBOY PRODIGY AS ONE SPRINGBOK LEAVES AND ANOTHER RE-SIGNS
It’s no secret that French clubs head to South African schoolboy events to recruit some of the best up-and-comers, and Stade Francais have done precisely that.
South Africa’s prized schoolboy competition, Craven Week, came to a thrilling close last week, with Western Province defeating the Cheetahs 37-24 in the final game of the day.
SA Schoolboy Paris-bound
The annual event sees teams from all across South Africa compete in one week of action-packed schoolboy rugby, where some of the best and brightest talents take centre stage.
It is not only an opportunity for coaches and fans to see the next generation of stars go toe-to-toe, but in recent years, it has become a hunting ground for French clubs to swoop in and sign players to their academies.
This year, Stade Francais have done just that, snapping up the service of Lions star Jacques Botha.
The 17-year-old is already an imposing specimen, standing 2.06m tall and weighing 117 kilograms, making him taller and heavier than Springbok lock Eben Etzebeth.
Stade Francais Actu reported that the youngster has signed with the French club and will join their youth ranks once he completes his schooling, with the LNR confirming the news shortly afterwards.
The Hoërskool Monument student was not selected for the SA Schools or the SA Schools ‘A’ this year but did so last year after impressing in the 2023 Craven Week.
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Bulls workhorse re-signs
Meanwhile, one second-rower will be staying on South African shores with Springbok lock Ruan Nortje signing a contract extension to remain at Loftus. He has extended his contract with the Bulls until 2027.
“The decision was easy for me; I still feel as though I have a purpose at the club and I am happy to be a part of such an awesome group of players and seasoned coaching staff,” the second-rower said.
“My biggest highlight will always be playing in front of a packed Loftus; it has always been a special place for me and the crowd has always been a big motivation whenever we run out. It is exciting to think that I get to experience that over the next couple of seasons still.”
Having re-committed to the Bulls, he set his sights on cementing his place in the Bok squad going forward with an eye to the World Cup.
“Every player hopes to represent their country and I will always have the ambition of playing more Tests for the Springboks and at a World Cup,” he added.
Springbok fly-half leaves Lions
It’s finally been confirmed that Jordan Hendrikse will join the Sharks following his departure from the Lions.
There was much confusion around the playmaker’s immediate future as the Sharks had confirmed the signing of the newly-capped Springbok fly-half, but the 23-year-old did not appear on the Lions’ leavers list at the end of the season.
Reports suggested that his contract with the Lions only expired in December this year and therefore, he would start the season in Johannesburg before switching to Durban before the end of the year.
However, the Lions have since announced his departure as he could now turn out for the Sharks in the Currie Cup.
“My time at the Lions has come to an end,” Hendrikse said in a statement on the Lions’ social media channels.
“I would like to thank everyone at the franchise who made an impact during my journey from the coaches, office staff and the men and women behind the scenes who have made my stay memorable.
“To my teammates who’ve become my brothers. I wish you all the success as you represent the Lions with pride. Finally, to the Lions fans, thank you for all your support and words of encouragement during my time at Emirates Airline Park. It was truly special playing for you.”
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Hacijvah Dayimani
Finally, Racing 92 have confirmed their new recruits ahead of the 2024/25 season, which includes Stormers back-rower and Springboks snub Hacjivah Dayimani.
The Stormers star was granted an early release from his deal with the Cape-based side in order to make the switch to France, which he signed until 2026.
He is joins the club along with ex-England captain Owen Farrell, France internationals Demba Bamba and Romain Taofifenua and Chile hooker Diego Escobar.
The French outfit have also secured the services of Dan Lancaster, son of head coach Stuart, and fellow Englishman Sam James.
2024-07-04T11:42:46Z dg43tfdfdgfd