Two players who fulfilled significant roles for the Stormers in the 2022-23 Vodacom United Rugby Championship have parted ways with the Cape side.
Experienced wing Sergeal Petersen and promising young centre Rikus Pretorius will continue their careers in Japan.
Petersen (28), who joined Western Province Rugby from the Cheetahs, replaced the injured Leolin Zas – the top try-scorer in the URC last season – when the Stormers beat the Vodacom Bulls in the final.
A former Junior Springbok, the 23-year-old Pretorius made his Stormers debut during Super Rugby Unlocked two years ago. He featured prominently in 2022 before limping off in the URC quarter-final win over Edinburgh.
Time to say farewell to Sergeal Petersen who will be playing in Japan next season. Thanks for all the magic moments over the last five years and all the best over there Sergeal. pic.twitter.com/JpClmx1qf2
— DHL Stormers (@THESTORMERS) August 4, 2022
All the best to Rikus Pretorius, who has decided to make the move to Japan. Thanks for all the hard work in the blue and white jersey Rikus. pic.twitter.com/6XosvXY5Or
— DHL Stormers (@THESTORMERS) August 3, 2022
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