Springbok and Lions No 8, Warren Whiteley, has replaced Eben Etzebeth as president of the South African Rugby Players’ Association.

Sarpa is a division of the rugby players’ organisation, MyPlayers, and is responsible for negotiating the minimum employment terms of all professional rugby players in South Africa

Whiteley has taken the reins from Etzebeth, who has served in the role since 2016. Following Whiteley’s appointment, Lizo Gqoboka, Chiliboy Ralepelle and Pieter-Steph du Toit were also elected to the Sarpa executive committee.

‘I’m really looking forward to the role and making a positive contribution when representing the players,’ Whiteley said. ‘There have been great leaders before me, and hopefully I can carry on and make a difference.

‘It’s a big honour for me as I have been a member of the players’ organisation since the start of my professional rugby career and I’m quite excited now to represent the players in this role.’

Photo: Phil Walter/Getty Images