Western Province and the Stormers franchise might be dealt a cruel blow as one of their current superstars is said to have signed with French Club Bayonne.
Local French newspapers have run a story that Joe Pietersen, who has enjoyed a magnificent Super 14 prior to his injury, has signed with French Club Bayonne until 2013.
Pietersen only 25, has been one of the stand-out performers in Allister Coetzee’s Stormers side with his ability to join the backline at pace, setting up and scoring some magnificent tries, not to mention his goal-kicking (he was the first choice kicker before he got injured) which has been magnificent.
Although Pietersen might stand a very slim chance of making the Springbok team, he will be a massive loss to Western Province and Stormers rugby.
Our understanding is that Pietersen is still currently contracted to Western Province, so details as to this signing and the arrangements he has made, is still sketchy.
April 28th, 2010 at 10:41 SAST
Eish… This would be quite a loss for the Stormpies…
April 28th, 2010 at 10:45 SAST
Mmmmm, not good!
The Oke was the stand-out Fullback in the Super 14 before his injury!
I would have made him a Bok… if he could play for the Stormers now after his injury and continue a good run of form.
April 28th, 2010 at 10:55 SAST
He saw the writing on the wall,as good as he is I doubt he ever would have become a Bok.. Plus with Kirchener playing so well with Frans coming back in 2 years there are a few in front of him. But all the best,big loss of talent to France once again..
April 28th, 2010 at 11:09 SAST
Frans coming back remains to be seen…
April 28th, 2010 at 11:12 SAST
I suppose he will. I just can’t see why he did’nt leave himself a chance to play in next years World Cup.
Can just imagine how he will feel when sitting, watching it on the telly…
April 28th, 2010 at 11:14 SAST
Blouste,I just think it depends how iron clad to the contract is and what buy out clauses there are. But I’m sure the French have better contracts than the Lions :p
April 28th, 2010 at 11:57 SAST
True, I just reckon Fransie should have waited a bit. He probably would have been the incumbant fullback by now…
Time will tell. For now the Bulls must only defend their S14 title
April 28th, 2010 at 12:04 SAST
Yeah,I’m convinced his agent pumped alot of crap into his brain and he didnt think this decision through.. But it is what it is,I think he is a legend,other bloggers have short memories and think he is overrated..
April 28th, 2010 at 12:05 SAST
Wow if i was a Stormer, i would be most upset about this news, the little guy is really good.
April 28th, 2010 at 12:48 SAST
Ek kan nie sien dat Frans Steyn sal terugkom SA toe nie!
Die land is te homofobies na sy sin!!
April 28th, 2010 at 15:51 SAST
Are u saying my noonoo is a moff ? Well who cares, he can come back 2 SHARKS anytime