Bok seals move to French side Narbonne
NEWS: Aphiwe Dyantyi has signed with French third-division outfit Narbonne on a deal that will run until the end of the season.
Racing Club de Narbonne Méditerranée (RCNM) confirmed the move, with the former Bulls flyer expected to link up with the squad later this week.
Dyantyi arrives as injury cover in the Narbonne backline, with Argentine Sevens international Axel Müller among those currently sidelined.
Narbonne are enjoying a strong campaign in France’s Nationale competition, sitting third on the table after 18 matches and firmly in the promotion conversation.
Dyantyi joined the Bulls in 2024 on a two-year contract set to expire in June, but will now continue his career in France as he looks to add fresh impetus to Narbonne’s season.
The 31-year-old returned to professional rugby in August 2023 after completing a four-year suspension for testing positive for three banned substances ahead of the 2019 World Cup.
Before his ban, Dyantyi was one of South African rugby’s brightest prospects. His standout 2018 season with the Lions earned him Springbok honours, and he scored six tries in 13 Tests.
That breakthrough year culminated in him being named World Rugby’s Breakthrough Player of the Year.
Narbonne expressed their excitement at the signing: “Racing welcomes Aphiwe Dyantyi and is looking forward to seeing him play in the orange and black colours in the near future.”