Currie Cup

(Kick-offs SA time)

Friday, September 3:
Griq v Cheetahs (17.00)
Leopards v Pumas (19.00)
Lions v WP (19.10)

Saturday, September 4:
Bulls v Sharks (19.10)

Tri-Nations

(Kick-offs GMT)

Saturday, September 4:
SA v Aus (15.00)

Saturday, September 11:
Aus v NZ (10.00)

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Tri-Nations

Saturday, August 28:
S Africa 44-31 Australia

Currie Cup

Friday, August 27:
WP 24-29 Cheetahs
Sharks 48-30 Griquas
Pumas 22-21 Blue Bulls
Lions 45-22 Leopards

LIVE COVERAGE

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Newsletter

Super 14

News | Fixtures & Results | Teams | Tables |

Rebels sign up young SA talent

Tue, 06 Jul 2010 11:08

The Melbourne Rebels have continued their signing spree with the addition of young South African back JP du Plessis, who signs with them from Australian Rugby League outfit, the Sydney Roosters.

Du Plessis, who matriculated at the end of last year from Paul Roos Gymnasium in Stellenbosch, sparked the interest of scouts from the Roosters, with his performances at the St. John's Easter Rugby festival early in 2009.

The talented 19-year-old outside back starred for Western Province in last year's successful Craven Week campaign and represented the South African Schools team, but he struggled to make an impact at the Roosters and never started a game for the NRL side.

Now he has made the move back to Union, with the Rebels his first port of call.

"I miss rugby union. I've played it all my life and looking forward to playing it again," Du Plessis said in a statement released by the Rebels.

"I've really enjoyed my experience with rugby league, but can't wait to play Super Rugby with the Melbourne Rebels."

Rebels assistant coach Damien Hill said Du Plessis would be a welcome addition.

"Just 19 years of age, JP has excellent foot work and acceleration," Hill said.

"He's a balanced runner who plays inside and outside centre and wing."

Du Plessis had been earmarked as a future Springbok before his surprising move to Sydney, and he told rugby365.com last year that he still dreamed of representing his country one day.

"If I go to Australia I don't want to close doors here," he said in an October interview, "I've always dreamt of playing for the Springboks."

Now with a move to the Rebels though, it is possible that South African fans may be forced to lament the loss of a future star.

Du Plessis was one of three signings announced by the Rebels on Tuesday, with Du Plessis to be joined by 21-year-old Australian Sevens back Nicholas Phipps and Brumbies Academy player Hugh Pyle.