Springbok departs Sharks

After six years, Springbok utility forward Jean-Luc du Preez will bid farewell to Sale Sharks to pursue an opportunity abroad.

The Sharks confirmed Du Preez’s departure, but his next destination is yet to be confirmed.

Jean-Luc has won 14 international caps since making his Springbok debut as a replacement against Wales, in Cardiff, in 2016.

The 29-year-old fans’ favourite joined the club on a permanent deal from the Durban-based Sharks, along with twin brother Dan in July 2019, after spending some of the previous season on loan.

He quickly became a key part of a powerful Sharks pack and has since gone on to make almost 150 appearances for Sale, many alongside fellow loose forward Dan and older brother Rob.

This season, Jean-Luc has featured 20 times for Sale Sharks, including 12 times in the Premiership, scoring one try.

Jean-Luc said, “Sale is a special place. A place where I am excited to go in and see the boys every day. A place that has given me and my family so much, and most importantly, a place I now call home.

“It’s been one hell of a ride. I will genuinely miss the club and the people who have helped me grow on and off the field. I am grateful to everyone.

“To the fans, I just want to say thank you. Thank you for backing us through thick and thin, thank you for being our 24th man. I look forward to supporting this club from afar, I know you will go on to do great things.”

Sharks Director of Rugby Alex Sanderson said: “We understand the reasons for Jean-Luc leaving, but we’re all gutted he’s leaving and everybody, not least his brothers, is going to miss him so much.

“I’ve only worked with him for four years, but I’ve got so much love for him. It’s going to be so tough for everyone to say goodbye, but probably worst for Jean-Luc because he’s leaving a place, a club, and a group of players who love him.”