The Golden Lions Rugby Union can confirm that flyhalf Elton Jantjies has requested a release from his Absa Currie Cup contract, in order to complete a loan transfer to Japanese club NTT Shining Arcs.
While the deal is yet to be concluded, Jantjies’ request has been granted as the Union believes the opportunity abroad will develop the 23-year-old.
Golden Lions Rugby Union Chief Executive Officer Rudolf Straeuli believes this loan move will be beneficial to both parties.
“Through this opportunity, Elton will be able to gain new, valuable experience abroad,” he explains.
“It will also be a good opportunity to give young, up-and-coming players within the GLRU structures, a chance to fast-track their careers.
Young players will benefit immensely from stepping in as "understudies to the current incumbent Marnitz Boshoff", during the Absa Currie Cup.”
Jantjies is looking forward to the opportunity abroad but also expressed his commitment to the Lions.
“I am looking forward to playing overseas as it has always been something I have wanted to do and I know I can gain experience that I can bring back with me,” shared Jantjies.
“The arrangements are being handled by my management company at present and we will only look to finalise the deal within the next week but I am still 100% committed to the Lions. I am looking forward to a successful last few games in this year’s Super Rugby competition.”
Jantjies will return to the Lions in February, ahead of the 2015 Vodacom Super Rugby tournament. (where by this time the Lions will have used the Curry Cup to find and blood a more able replacement)
