The Vodacom Bulls have confirmed they received and would accept centre Johnny Kotze’s departure from the Pretoria-based franchise.

On Sunday, it was reported that Kotze would be exercising the 21-day exit clause that has been implemented to allow local players to opt out of their current contracts as SA Rugby gets set to implement wide-ranging pay cuts.

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In response to the article, though, the player’s agency, One Sport SA, suggested Kotze was looking at the option of heading to Japan, but then added a final decision would only be made about his future once the agreement was received.

Yet, in another twist to the matter, the Bulls told Sport24 that Kotze would be leaving after all.

‘The player’s agent sent through an instruction that Johnny, who is also the chairman from the Bulls’ side at the Players Association, would be exercising his right within the 21-day period to leave,’ a statement read.

‘Jake White, the director of rugby, accepted and wished Johnny all the best with his decision.’