Kings axe absent Samoan
The Eastern Province Kings have terminated Samoan wing Paul Perez's contract with immediate effect.
Perez, who was to have played an integral role in the EP Kings plans for the 2015 season, disappeared for two days this week – without justification or permission, and remained uncontactable for the duration of his absence.
EP Rugby President Cheeky Watson confirmed that the union had been in the process of applying for Perez' work permit, and had been obligated to contact the Department of Home Affairs due to concerns raised by his absenteeism.
On his return, and subsequent dismissal from the EP Kings, authorities then acted in terms of home affairs protocols.
"It is a major blow for us as the union, and we are extremely saddened and disappointed by the turn of events," said Watson.
"Paul is an extremely talented individual, and we have invested heavily in him over the past year, as he has undergone rehabilitation for his knee and has even undergone surgery on our account," said Watson.
The 28-year-old Perez, seven Test caps for his counter and 50-odd games for the National Sevens team to his credit, first joined the Kings in 2010 – after visa problems prevented him from making a move to France, where he was set to play for Toulon.
This came after he was deported from New Zealand earlier that year, after being convicted on two counts of domestic assault on his pregnant partner.
