Sale Sharks confirm departure of Springbok Dan du Preez

The 30-year-old, a firm favourite with supporters, arrived at the CorpAcq Stadium in July 2019 from the HollywoodBets Sharks alongside twin brother Jean-Luc and younger brother Rob.

Du Preez became Shark #316 when he made his debut in a Premiership Rugby Cup victory over Northampton in September 2019. Since then, he has gone on to make 121 appearances for the club, scoring 24 tries.

Injuries have restricted his involvement this season, with the back row featuring seven times and making one Gallagher Prem start.

Internationally, Dan made his Springboks debut in 2017 – a year after Jean-Luc – and has earned six caps for South Africa.

He will follow brother Rob in departing the club at the end of the campaign, while Jean-Luc left last summer to join Bordeaux.

Dan said: “I’ve loved my time at Sale. The past six and a half years have been a privilege. I’ve made some incredible memories on and off the pitch, and made lifelong friends along the way in the players and coaches.

“This club has meant so much to me, and I’ve grown not just as a player, but more importantly, as a person.

“My family and I have made Manchester our home, our boys were born here and we’ve had the joy of watching them grow up here. I’ve been lucky enough to share this experience with my brothers and their families, making memories I’ll never forget.

“To Si, Michelle, Ged, and Soraya, thank you for making it possible for me to join this great club. Your support, love and dedication to Sale is unmatched and the club is very fortunate to have owners who care as much as you do.

“To the fans, thank you for your incredible support, loyalty and your energy on match days. You’ve made this journey one that will always stick with me.”

Sale Sharks Director of Rugby Alex Sanderson said: “Dan has been a fantastic servant to the club and I’ve absolutely loved working with him.

“I know I speak for everyone at Sale Sharks when I say that we’re gutted he’s leaving, and we’re really going to miss him, on and off the pitch. I wish him all the very best for the future.”