Blue Bulls loose forward Jono Ross has been granted an early release from his contract to join Stade Français.
    
Ross will join the Paris-based club on 1 December, ending a four-year relationship with the Bulls after signing with them in 2010. Bulls coach Frans Ludeke admitted that it was a setback losing a former captain and versatile loose forward, but pointed to the huge stock of talented players who'll still be available for next year's Super Rugby and Currie Cup campaigns.

'Jono provided leadership and played at six, seven and eight for us when our loose forward department was depleted due to injuries, but thanks to our junior structures, the return of injured players and some new signings, we have a strong group for next year,' Ludeke said.

'We have seen the likes of Jacques du Plessis, Roelof Smit and Janse van Rensburg breaking into the senior ranks despite being juniors, while Lappies Labuschagne also joined from the Cheetahs. With Springboks Pierre Spies and Arno Botha also returning to action and some proven players already on our books, we will have a very competitive group amongst our loose forwards.

'We want to thank Jono for his contributions and wish him well.'

Photo: Lee Warren/Gallo Images