The exodus of South Africa’ top rugby talent has reached epidemic proportions with three former Springbok players on Monday signing, or signalling their intent to sign, with British clubs.
Cats captain Andre Vos has signed with English club Harlequins, while Sharks fullback Thinus Delport has decided to join Gloucester.
South Africa’s most capped fullback Percy Montgomery has apparently told Springbok coach Rudolph Straeuli that he is also moving overseas, after pulling out of Sunday’s national trials.
”Players for the first test will come out of the national trials, to be played on Sunday,” said Straeuli.
”I am disappointed by Montgomery’s decision. He has not backed himself to make the Bok team and to get a contract in South Africa, and that is extremely disappointing. He has cited financial security as the reason for a move overseas. It is always disappointing when a player is not prepared to stick it out and fight for his place in a national team.”
Straeuli said that Montgomery’s agent, Craig Livingstone, had made contact last Friday, suggesting that only a World Cup contract would keep Montgomery in South Africa.
”I told him my door was open should he reconsider his options,” said Straeuli, who contacted Stormers and Western Province coach Gert Smal after Livingstone’s call.
”He was as surprised. He told me he was not aware that Montgomery had signed for an overseas team or was going to leave WP.”
Montgomery is set join fellow Springbok and now London Irish player, Pieter Rossouw, who many felt was certain to occupy the Bok left-wing berth for the upcoming two-test series against the Welsh.
Vos’ decision to quit Springbok rugby was made some time ago, after admitting that the rigours of test rugby was too much of a burden on his body, but will only join Harlequins on November 1.
Delports’ contract with Gloucester will start on June 1. – Sapa