France's SA-born star decides his future

NEWS: France lock Paul Willemse has extended his contract with Montpellier until 2025, the Top 14 club said on Tuesday.

South African-born Willemse, 29, joined the southern outfit in 2015 and has made 19 Test appearances.

The 130kg-loose forward has been a mainstay for Les Bleus since Fabien Galthie took over as head coach after the 2019 Rugby World Cup.

“I’m very proud to continue the adventure with Montpellier and I hope to make this club proud and all the supporters over the coming seasons,” Willemse said in a Montpellier statement.

Montpellier’s European Champions Cup match with Leinster this weekend is in doubt due to Covid-19 cases among both squads.

In the Top 14, they are third in the table before heading to struggling Biarritz on December 26.

France start their Six Nations campaign on February 6 by hosting Italy in Paris.