Springbok Curwin Bosch Joins Courtney Lawes in France as Ruan Ackerman Considers Japan Move
The Sharks are gearing up for significant changes in their roster as transfer season heats up for the 2024/25 season. Springbok fly-half Curwin Bosch is set to leave the Sharks to join Pro D2 outfit Brive in France, alongside England flanker Courtney Lawes.
Bosch’s departure comes after falling down the pecking order at the Sharks, with Siya Masuku shining in the number 10 position. The move to Brive is on the verge of completion, with Bosch set to join former Hurricanes pivot Jackson Garden-Bachop.
Meanwhile, Gloucester back-rower Ruan Ackermann is also considering a move abroad. Despite recently signing a contract extension with Gloucester, Ackermann is reportedly in talks to join the Canon Eagles in Japan, reuniting with his father Johann Ackermann, who is the head coach of the Urayasu D-Rocks.
In other transfer news, the Lions have missed out on signing hooker Franco Marais from the D-Rocks, who confirmed his return to Japan next season. However, the Stormers have secured another re-signing in rising star Suleiman Hartzenberg, adding to the list of players committing to the Cape-based outfit.
Additionally, Bulls scrum-half Embrose Papier has extended his stay with the franchise, joining a host of players who have signed contract extensions. Cardiff Rugby have bid farewell to 14 players ahead of their final game of the season, with Mason Grady being the only player to re-sign with the club.
As clubs line up to secure top talent, the likes of Taniela Tupou and Carter Gordon from the Melbourne Rebels are on the radar for potential transfers. Italian international Ross Vintcent has extended his stay with Exeter Chiefs, while Glasgow Warriors confirmed the departure of Scotland international hooker George Turner at the end of the season.