Springbok and Vodacom Bulls prop Lizo Gqoboka has joined Top 14 giants Montpellier on a short-term loan deal during the World Cup.
The 29-year-old was left out of the Boks’ 31-man squad for the World Cup, but could still be included on the standby list for any injuries.
Given that the Bulls have failed to progress to the Currie Cup playoffs, Gqoboka has decided to join Montpellier in a deal similar to Wilco Louw’s move to Toulon and Damian Willemse’s move to Saracens.
Gqoboka will link up with fellow South Africans at the club in the Du Plessis brothers, Jannie and Bismarck, fullback Henry Immelman as well as former Bulls Jacques du Plessis, Paul Willemse and Nicolaas Janse van Rensburg.
‘I am very excited to start this new adventure in Montpellier. I spoke with some club players who are very happy here. I look forward to taking my bearings and getting to know everyone,’ Gqoboka said.
‘The Top 14 is a great championship that brings together many experienced international players. There are also many young talents who can learn from them.’
‘My personal goal is to contribute as much as possible to the success of the club. Everyone always has something to contribute, both on the ground and outside, trying to be a better person, helping people and bringing a positive attitude.’
#JokerCoupeDuMonde : Lizo Gqoboka (pilier gauche) rejoint le MHR.
https://t.co/my8Lg5hSOQ#TEAMMHR pic.twitter.com/K6pHFJHl0l
— Montpellier Rugby (@MHR_officiel) September 2, 2019
Photo: Steve Haag/Gallo Images