Jump to main content

Menu

de Villiers Due On Thursday

de Villiers Due On Thursday

Jean de Villiers, fresh from his role in helping South Africa to the Tri Nations title, will arrive in Cork on Thursday to begin his life as a Munster player.

The Springbok centre, who scored a try in Saturday’s win over New Zealand in Hamilton, is due into Cork Airport next Thursday morning.

Commenting on the news of his arrival, Munster coach Tony McGahan said: “Jean de Villiers is recognised as one of the top midfield rugby players in world rugby and I’m looking forward to having him in our squad.

Google Ad Manager – 300×250 – In Article

“He brings a wealth of experience and a skill level that will benefit Munster on and off the field.”

Not surprisingly with a player of his class, Western Province did their utmost to keep him, as Rob Wagner, MD of Western Province Rugby (Pty) Ltd, readily admitted.

‘We are obviously sad to be losing Jean. As a captain and a player he has contributed significantly both on and off the pitch,” he said.

“Whilst we did everything in our power to retain his services, Jean has made up his mind to join the great Irish club Munster.

“Western Province Rugby is sorry he is departing, but we thank him for all that he has done for, and meant to Western Province and the Stormers and hope to see him back in the future.

“We wish him all of the very best with Munster.”

As is the norm, de Villiers will have to undergo the usual medical and fitness tests before joining up with the Munster squad – they train in Limerick that day.

But it is expected that he may feature in Munster’s squad for the Magners League game against the Dragons at Musgrave Park on Sunday, September 27.