Warrick Gelant has reportedly ruled himself out of selection for the Springboks’ end-of-year tour, in order to join his new French Top 14 club Racing 92.
Gelant, who has been named as part of the Bok squad for the Rugby Championship, completed his long-awaited deal with Racing in June.
In a wide-ranging interview with Rapport, the 27-year-old revealed that he is keen to join his new club as soon as possible, which is understood to be after the Rugby Championship.
“My vision is to become part of Racing 92’s history and become part of something special there again,” Gelant told Rapport.
“The values at the club are good and they want to become a champion team over the next few years.
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“If my focus is on growth and staying part of the club, it will hopefully bring me opportunities with the Springboks.”
But, with injured gamebreaker Cheslin Kolbe doubtful to recover in time to feature in the Rugby Championship, the versatile Gelant could fill his boots and make the No 14 jersey his own.
The fullback was recalled by the Boks for the first time since 2019 for the July series against Wales, the Rugby Championship and the end-of-year tour.
He started his 10th Test in a new-look Bok lineup for the historic defeat to Wales in Bloemfontein, with former Stormers teammate Damian Willemse preferred at No 15 for the first and third Tests.
Photo: Shaun Roy/BackpagePix
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