Darry Worthington takes a look at the rugby news that has made the headlines over the past week.
Image Copyright – Steve Haag Sports
Rugby Australia Cut Three
Rugby Australia have cut the contracts of Reds stars Izack Rodda, Harry Hockings, and Issac Lucas. The trio had earlier refused to take pay cuts as rugby Australia looked to cut costs due to the onset of COVID-19. They have now been released by Rugby Australia and Queensland Rugby.
Rodda is apparently looking to sign for another local franchise while Hockings and Lucas are looking for overseas deals.
Mostert Heads for Japan
Springbok lock Franco Mostert is set to move on from Gloucester and over to Japan come the close of the season. While the news is yet to be confirmed, it would make sense with Mostert’s long time mentor, Johann Ackermann, having left the club under strange circumstances just a few weeks ago.
This could be a massive coup for South African rugby as Mostert would be available for parts of Super Rugby should he sign for a Top League club.
Kruis to Leave Saracens
Saracens are set to lose yet another stalwart with veteran second-rower George Kruis on the way to the Panasonic Wild Knights.
While Kruis will only be on a one-year deal – with an option to extend for a year – with the Top League side, one is left to wonder if he will call time on his England career. It would be quite surprising if he was to do this, however, as he is still a key member of Eddie Jones’ squad and there’s also a British and Irish Lions tour on the near horizon.
Mbonambi on Bulls Radar
The Blues Bulls may have already made a handful of signings but Jake White’s side is still in the market for a few new faces. Apparently one of the names on their shopping list is World Cup-winning hooker Bongi Mbonambi.
Western Province are confident Mbonambi won’t be making a switch to Pretoria, however, with Stormers coach John Dobson stating “Bongi is a world-class player and we’re thrilled to have him, as we are all of our Springboks who have committed their futures to the union,”
“He is a fantastic guy and while we understand that there will always be interest in him, we expect him to serve out the rest of his contract with us.”
