A round up of what some of South Africa’s leading Sunday papers are saying, including an update on Pieter-Steph du Toit’s contract saga.
Sunday newspaper Rapport has an update on the ever-changing situation involving Stormers flank Pieter-Steph du Toit. As reported by SARugbymag.co.za, the 2019 World Player of the Year opted to cancel his contract as SA rugby’s 21-day exit window ended this past week – but his intention is to stay in South Africa and he is busy negotiating a new contract with WP Rugby.
READ: SA rugby’s first ‘transfer day’ dished up drama
However, Du Toit reportedly wants his new contract to specifically allow him to negotiate for another contract that will come into play after the British & Irish Lions tour. He also wants to able to re-negotiate his contract if the 40% pay cut – introduced due to the Covid-19 pandemic – lasts longer than December this year, and wants control over his image rights.
Meanwhile, there is move positive news for Western Province as it has been reported that they are interested in bringing Warrick Gelant back to the Western Cape. Rapport state that the 24-year-old is still part of Vodacom Bulls director of rugby Jake White’s long-term plans and has an offer to extend his current contract – which expires in July. Province have an issue at fullback after Dillyn Leyds and Jean-Luc du Plessis both left the franchise – with Damian Willemse still primarily covering flyhalf.
The same report states that Province are looking into the possibility of signing tighthead prop Vincent Koch – after he received permission from Saracens to play in South Africa – as well as Lions centre Wandisile Simelane.
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