adminThe group — whose average age is just over 26 years — includes the core of the Springboks Test players from 2012, while players who are based overseas or who have signed contracts with overseas clubs, were not awarded national contracts.
“We’ve kept as many of our top players in South Africa as we could by awarding them national contracts, despite the powerful lure of the pound, euro and yen,” said SARU CEO Jurie Roux.
“We worked hard with the Springbok Management and SARPA to ensure the best possible deal is placed on the table for the players.
“A further five contracts are still available and will be finalised in due course. Last year provided Heyneke Meyer with an ideal opportunity to see what is needed in the Test arena, and by contracting this group of players, we have secured a core group for 2013. The average age of the contracted group is not very high for Test rugby, which bodes well for the future.”
Springbok coach Heyneke Meyer said: “I’m very excited about the contract group. Most of these players showed how good they are,” he said. — Sport 24.
Online Reporter