OWN CORRESPONDENT, Cape Town | Thursday 2.30pm.
WESTERNS Province and Stormers centre Andy Marinos has signed a two-year deal to play for Welsh club Newport, he announced at a press conference in Cape Town on Thursday.
Marinos, who joins Newport in September, confirmed that he had been contacted by the Welsh Rugby Union and national coach Graham Henry with a view to playing for Wales in the World Cup in October. The 27-year-old qualifies through two of his grandparents who are from Wales.
Marinos was cleared by the South African Rugby Football Union this week of any misconduct during a threatened Stormers players’ strike on the eve of the Super 12 semifinal in May. He made a public apology and paid a fine into a charity fund for disabled rugby players.
“Although it has been a tough decision, as I have thoroughly enjoyed playing for the Stormers and Western Province, I have been presented with a very exciting opportunity to go and play in Wales,” Marinos said.
“The negotiations between WP and Andy were extremely easy. We are sorry to see him go and wish him well in the future. We would like to thank Andy for what he added to professionalism in rugby at WP and we hope to see him in the World Cup for Wales,” said Rob Wagner, CEO of WP.
Western Province coach Alan Solomons was also full of praise for the powerfully built centre. “Andy goes with my blessing and best wishes. It has been brilliant coaching him. He is a fine player and has been a huge part of our success in the Currie Cup last season and the Super 12 with the Stormers,” said Solomons.
Marinos joined Western Province in 1997 after beginning his playing career at the Natal Sharks before spending two seasons with Australian Rugby League team the Sydney Bulldogs between 1995 and 1997. A powerful hard running centre, Marinos brings experience and strength to the Newport midfield.
“We are fortunate to acquire a player of the calibre of Andy who will be an asset to our current team,” said Newport director of rugby Allan Lewis. Marinos will conclude the Currie Cup season with Western Province before moving to Wales at the end of August.