In a move that's set to shake up both hemispheres, Stormers' stalwart Dan du Plessis has inked a two-year contract with the French powerhouse Bordeaux Bègles, starting July 1. After ten years of service in Cape Town and amassing 87 caps, the seasoned midfielder is headed to the Top 14, fresh off their Investec Champions Cup victory.
Despite battling through seasons marred by serious injuries, du Plessis leaves behind a legacy intertwined with that of centre partner Ruhan Nel. Together, they became the most capped centre duo in Stormers' history, a record clinched during their URC semi-final clash against Leinster.
The du Plessis name resonates deeply within South African rugby lore. Dan, the progeny of former Springbok centre Michael du Plessis and nephew to the legendary Carel and Willie du Plessis, has rugby practically running through his veins. Although his prowess was evident enough to dominate at the SA U20 level and consistently shine in the URC, a Springbok jersey eluded him.
"It's been an incredible journey here in Cape Town, but the allure of competing in the Top 14 and joining a club of Bordeaux's stature is immensely exciting," said du Plessis.
Bordeaux's head coach Yannick Bru has been an admirer of du Plessis for quite some time. This isn't the first instance Bordeaux has expressed interest in the robust midfielder, signaling a well-thought-out acquisition by the French club.
Du Plessis will be joining a contingent of fellow South Africans at Bordeaux, including new Springbok prop Carlü Sadie, loose forwards Jean-Luc du Preez and Tiaan Jacobs, and centre Rohan Janse van Rensburg. The club has also recently snapped up young talents like locks Robbie Combrinck and Diaan Augustyn, and hooker Benjamin Coetzee.
This pivot to France for du Plessis could very well pave the way for the Stormers' emerging talents like Johnny Roche and SA U20 star Markus Muller, who made his team debut in April, to gain more prominence and match experience.
As for Bordeaux, their strategic signings, including du Plessis, continue to underscore their ambition on the European stage, potentially heralding a new era for the club in the fiercely competitive French Top 14.