Pat ready for French leave

French club Racing 92 are rapidly developing a reputation for fielding some of the best flyhalves in the world, but being the creators of none as it was confirmed yesterday that Springbok star Pat Lambie (above) has been released from his national contract to sign a three-year deal with the club.

Lambie will team up with New Zealand great Dan Carter and the move is a gamble considering the fact that he has not played since mid-May when he suffered the latest in a series of concussions.

At his best, however, the 26-year-old is a proven performer with both creativity and a kicking game, and to have 56 Test caps is amazing for one so young.

Lambie admitted he felt a change of scenery might bring to an end his rotten run of injuries.

“The decision to leave a place that will always remain home was not an easy one; however, after having a number of setbacks over the last few years, the thinking was to go experience something different in a new environment,” Lambie explained.

Lambie’s national contract was jointly held by the Springboks and the Sharks, and while he is still eligible to play for South Africa because he has more than 30 caps, he hinted he would like to return to Durban one day.

“I loved my time at the Sharks, and I leave with extremely fond memories. This is a fresh start for Kate and me though, and we look forward to an exciting new adventure in our lives. I would love to return home one day,” Lambie said.