Western Province flyhalf Demetri Catrakilis has been released from his contract in order to join French club Montpellier.

Catrakilis, who won two Currie Cup titles with WP, began this domestic season as the starting flyhalf, but has since been displaced by talented youngster Rob du Preez.

With Province clearly looking to the future, Catrakilis has been given the opportunity to join Montpellier earlier than initially expected.

'Demetri has always been the ultimate professional and he goes to France with our blessing,' WP director of rugby Gert Smal said. 'All of us at WP Rugby would like to wish him well for his future, but he will always remain a Province man in our eyes.'

Photo: Johan Rynners/Gallo Images