The post-World Cup player exodus is already taking shape in South Africa.
This past weekend, it came to light that Stormers and Springbok lock Eben Etzebeth will be joining French giants Toulon after the World Cup.
With his contract at the Stormers coming to an end at the end of next season, Etzebeth, 27, was reportedly approached by Toulon boss Mourad Boudjellal in the week leading up to the Springboks’ Test against France last month.
En die agterbaksheid has got the Western Province hierarchy bedonnerd.
WPRFU CEO Paul Zacks says: “I’m not sure it’s the player’s fault, to be honest. I suppose the disappointing part is that the protocol wasn’t followed.
“In terms of the Springboks and a lot of the players going forward, I think we all know that there is always a lot of movement of players post a World Cup to greener pastures, so to speak.
“That is not unexpected, I think it’s just the way we manage the communication is key and following protocol and having respect for the parties.”