Stormers set to lose star player to France

Western Province and the Stormers franchise might be dealt a cruel blow as one of their current superstars is said to have signed with French Club Bayonne.

RuggaWorld.com can reveal that local French newspapers have run a story that Joe Pietersen, who has enjoyed a magnificent Super 14 prior to his injury, has signed with French Club Bayonne until 2013.

Pietersen only 25, has been one of the stand-out performers in Allister Coetzee’s Stormers side with his ability to join the backline at pace, setting up and scoring some magnificent tries, not to mention his goal-kicking (he was the first choice kicker before he got injured) which has been magnificent.

Although Pietersen might stand a very slim chance of making the Springbok team, he will be a massive loss to Western Province and Stormers rugby.

Our understanding is that Pietersen is still currently contracted to Western Province, so details as to this signing and the arrangements he has made, is still sketchy.

Tags: Bayonne, Joe Pietersen, Stormers Rugby, WP Rugby