Du Preez heading to Japan next year
Fourie du Preez has revealed plans to quit South Africa and head to Japan to further his career following next year’s Rugby World Cup.
The Bulls and Springbok scrum-half, widely regarded as the best player in the world in his position, today extended his contract with his provincial employers until the conclusion of the Super 15 competition in 2011.
His contract with South Africa also runs for two more international seasons.
Du Preez, 27, explained that he had taken the decision to give others a chance after winning everything possible with the Pretoria outfit.
He said: “These were the best rugby years of my life and I could never have played for another union.
“By revealing my plans for the future now, it will give the Bulls sufficient time to plan for the future and possible successors.
“There are already some excellent players like Francois Hougaard knocking on the door, so it is time to move on.”
Du Preez has won two Super 14 titles and three Currie Cups during his time at Loftus Versfeld.
He continued: “I was happy to be involved with the Bulls during arguably the best era they have ever had.
“It remains a massive honour to be part of the structures started and maintained by world class coaches such as Heyneke Meyer and Frans Ludeke.
“The leadership of Victor Matfield and the bond between the team members is also something I will always treasure. There is still time for me to add value and it is something I look forward to.”
Explaining his destination of Japan, De Preez said: “After 11 years at the Bulls, I am affording myself the opportunity to change the scenery and to expose myself to a different culture. This contract will allow me that.
“I think I can learn a lot and broaden my horizons in the game at the same time, which will help should I opt for a career in coaching later on in my life.”
The 2007 World Cup-winner, who has 55 Test caps since his debut against Ireland in 2004, also spoke about his international future.
He added: “There is the chance to play in another World Cup, but also the knowledge that I will enjoy the experience.
“Last season was the most enjoyable I have had in the Bok jersey and think Peter de Villiers deserves a lot of credit for that. I feel we have the experience and core group in the team to make a serious run at the Webb Ellis trophy again.”
Ludeke, current head coach of the Bulls, paid tribute to Du Preez.
“Again Fourie did not only act in his own interests, but thought of the team as well,” he said.
“As one of the architects of the success the Bulls enjoyed in recent years, his input in our planning will be highly valued and it is nice to know he will be around for a while still. I know he had many offers and options, but he again showed his commitment to the Bulls.
“Fourie is a student of the game and will help in the process to identify and bring the right successors through.”
