The Pumas' roster continues to thin as André Goedhals becomes the latest player to exit, signing with Exeter Chiefs in the English Premiership. This makes Goedhals the fourth member of the Pumas’ Currie Cup squad to migrate to a UK club this season.
Having showcased his versatility by playing both lock and flank, Goedhals was a key figure in Pumas' Currie Cup final clash against Griquas in Kimberley. His transition overseas is facilitated by his British passport, acquired during his birth in Britain to expatriate parents.
The trend of Pumas players moving to the UK continues unabated. Sampie Swiegers, a prop, is already adapting to his new surroundings at Harlequins in London. Additionally, lock JJ Scheepers has found a new home with the Sale Sharks, and flank Ruwald van der Merwe has been snapped up by the Glasgow Warriors.
This exodus highlights the ongoing challenge faced by South African clubs in retaining top talents, who are increasingly lured by the prospects of playing in European leagues.
