REACTION: Jordan Hendrikse speaks about his 'homecoming'
On Wednesday it was confirmed that flyhalf Jordan Hendrikse, a member of the Springbok alignment camp in Cape Town next week, has signed an agreement to join the Sharks.
His agency, Roc Nation Sports International, said it is an “all-important career move” for the talented 22-year-old.
He will join Bok brother Jaden Hendrikse in Durban.
The news came in the build-up to the Lions’ Round 11 United Rugby Championship encounter with the Sharks at Ellis Park on Saturday.
With 40-odd Lions appearances in four years, the former Junior Springbok Player of the Year and South African Young Player of the Year, has been earmarked for higher honours.
It appeared his career was stagnating in Johannesburg and the former Glenwood High scholar has decided to return ‘home’.
“I’m incredibly excited to be joining the Sharks,” Hendrikse told @rugby365com.
“It’s a fantastic opportunity for me to grow as a player and contribute to a team with a rich history and passionate fan base.
“I’m looking forward to linking up with the squad and learning from experienced players like my brother Jaden.”
With his contract at the Lions only expiring in December, he is set to rejoin brother Jaden – with who he last played at school – early next year.
That is unless there is a request for an early release and the Lions agree to such a release.
Hendrikse said the reason for choosing the Sharks is their “great reputation for developing young talent”.
(Watch a previous one-on-one @king365com had with Jordan Hendrikse … talking about his career)
“I’m eager to be a part of that culture,” he told @rugby365com.
“I’m looking forward to the challenge of competing for a starting position and contributing to the team’s success.”
He said it is a ‘homecoming’, having gone to school in Durban.
“I’m excited to be heading back to familiar territory and to connect with the Sharks family.
“Having said that, I am still fully focused on giving my all for the Lions, and remain very grateful to them for backing me over the last few years in Johannesburg.”
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