Springbok lock Victor Matfield is set to become the highest paid player in Europe if he accepts a £350 000 annual deal with Toulon.
The second division club have already signed Andrew Mehrtens and George Gregan, and Tana Umaga has accepted a coaching post with the side. A number of clubs are keen to secure Matfield’s services after the World Cup, but this is reportedly the biggest offer to date. The exchange rate sees the offer valued at around R5 million per year.
A number of other players may be attracted abroad with the promise of greater wealth. Bok Skipper John Smit is in Clermont-Auvergne’s sights while others like Butch James (Bath) and Percy Montgomery (Perpignan) are rumoured to be talking to overseas clubs.
The All Blacks are also set to suffer with Chris Jack, Carl Hayman, Anton Oliver and Aaron Mauger confirming their departure after the World Cup. The Wallabies will have to look for a new halfback pairing after October, as Stephen Larkham is also making the move to Europe at the tournament’s conclusion.
See who has been inducted into the International Rugby Hall of Fame. (more…)
Bryan Habana puts in a big hit on Mose Tuiali'i in the Super14 semifinal against…
Robbie Fleck takes a swipe at Ben Cohen - and connects. (more…)
Corne Krige, after nearly being strangled to death on the deck, lashes out at Martin…
Francois Steyn kicks a monster drop goal against the Western Force (more…)