Once again The Sharks and SA Rugby have shown the maturity expected of a professional sport by agreeing to release one of their veterans early, to join Ulster in Ireland.
Sharks Media Release
Brendon (BJ) Botha has served The Sharks with distinction and pride since 2001, winning 15 caps for the Springboks along the way. The release also impacts on the international team plans with SA Rugby more than willing to support The Sharks attempts to keep BJ in the country for the next two years. Despite this generous offer from both unions, BJ Botha made a tough call.
‘The decision has not been easy for either my family, or me, but with a baby on the way, my wife is not able to fly beyond a certain date in August and if we are to move, now is the time. We have taken the decision in the best interest of my career and most importantly, my family. My emotions on the subject are beyond question, but for me, my family is vitally important, and I would like the opportunity to experience playing at a high level in another environment” says BJ.
The Sharks CEO Brian van Zyl said that whilst he had served them well, The Sharks have a more than competent squad of front row players and extremely promising youngsters coming up through the ranks to fill the gap.
this is a blow indeed. Still, Pat is going to be a star in years to come and we have Harris capable of doing a reasonable job…
You signed Brok Harris??
@PJLD(RIP Bernie Mac) (Comment 2) : You Wish
@robdylan (Comment 1) : I guess that is why he didn’t play against Province all of a sudden, Flu my foot!
@PJLD(RIP Bernie Mac) (Comment 2) : no – we got the good one. Robbie Harris.
Good luck BJ.
Break a leg!
@wpw (Comment 5) : that only means good luck in theatre circles, you moegoe!
Best of luck to BJ on his move and the impending arrival of the newest little Botha!
and this is why the argie was signed. i thought he was bought in to cover bj, although isn’t the argie a loosehead. i suppose deon can play tight head. well good luck ulster, you got a great player on your books.
@try time (Comment 8) : Short-term cover until Pat is 100%? Would’ve thought we’d be ok with Jannie, Deon, Robbie and Burra.
same here, i think it is overkill. but i suppose you can’t win if your scrum is going backwards, so better safe than sorry.
Sad sad day for SA rugby.. But mark my words he not going to be the last one to leave. Still can’t believe that they couldn’t find place for him in Springbok team. He is world class.
Good luck BJ and Ulster!!!! you’ve got the best
@try time (Comment 10) : Just ask Province
@robdylan (Comment 12) :I can’t ask their props, they can’t talk as they are currently having their heads surgically removed from their bums they were pushed back so hard. pretty much like cj and mujati will look tomorrow.
Eish…I suppose it’s a good move for him…with the baby on the way and everything…
We’ll miss him…even though we do have Plan B…plan BJ was better.
Adiós amigo !!! All the best in Ireland !
There are not many genuine – born and bred Sharks boyjies, and the best like Brad & BJ are going – snif.
All the best and come home sooner. The weather that side is Kuk.
But you know that already.