Tigers agree to let Brink return to South Africa
BACK ROWER LEAVING AT THE END OF THE YEAR
VODACOM Bulls have announced the signing of Cyle Brink from Tigers.
The United Rugby Championship side made the announcement on Monday morning, which was followed by confirmation by Tigers. The forward will depart the club on December 31.
News first broke of the South African forward returning to his homeland on Friday when a story was published on the Bulls website, but it was swiftly removed.
“We are very happy to have secured the services of Cyle Brink,” Vodacom Bulls director of rugby, Jake White, said.
“Cyle is an exceptionally gifted athlete who has proven himself as a world-class player from his time at the Emirates Lions and now at Leicester Tigers over the past year.
“We have no doubt he will add great value to the squad, both on and off the field, and will equally contribute with his stellar performances, experience and leadership qualities.
“We look forward to seeing him in the blue jumper.”
Tigers confirmed Brink’s departure. Head coach Steve Borthwick said: “Cyle has had an interrupted time with us, after joining during the first lockdown, but has worked tirelessly every day he has been here to get himself in the best possible condition, to develop as a player, and to do everything he can to help the team.
“He has been a really important part of the Leicester Tigers squad during this rebuild.
“An opportunity for him has come up in the new year, back home in South Africa, and we wish Cyle all the best in this next chapter with the Bulls.
“I want to thank him, on behalf of everyone at Leicester Tigers, for his contribution to our club and the part he has played in the very early stages of this journey we are on.”
Brink said: “I am extremely grateful for having had the time at Leicester Tigers and would like to thank the coaches, staff and my teammates for their support.
“While I have enjoyed my time in Leicester, I am grateful to Tigers for coming to this agreement with me and the Bulls which allows me to return home to South Africa.
“I am looking forward to this new opportunity and challenge in my career and wish Leicester Tigers all the best in the future.”
The 27-year-old has made only two appearances this season after being ruled out for over six months with a knee injury suffered in Tigers’ European Challenge Cup final defeat to Montpellier in May.
Since starting against Bath (Premiership) and Sale Sharks (Premiership Cup), Brink has been absent from the next four Tigers squads.
Vodacom Bulls are second from bottom in the United Rugby Championship with one win from five games.
They are not due to play again until January 8, when they are scheduled to make the trip to Zebre.
The Bulls are in the market for a number eight having lost both Duane Vermeulen (Ulster) and Nizaam Carr (Wasps) this year.