Ricky Januarie has announced his international retirement after agreeing a deal to move to Top 14 new boys Lyon.
Scrum-half released to join Lyon
Ricky Januarie has announced his international retirement after agreeing a deal to move to Top 14 new boys Lyon.
The 29-year-old scrum-half had been named as part of South Africa's preliminary World Cup squad.
However Januarie has now withdrawn and been released from his contract with Western Province to make the switch to France.
"I've had a great run in South African rugby and have some fantastic memories but the time has come to move on," said Januarie.
"Lyon have offered me a new beginning and I want to concentrate all my efforts on helping them in their first season in the French Top 14."
Springboks coach Peter de Villiers has hailed the impact Januarie has had on the side during his international career.
"Ricky has been a great servant to the Springboks and to all the teams he has represented over a long and successful career," said de Villiers.
"He is a combative and fearless player and has been a part of some memorable Springbok performances. I wish him all the best for the new chapter in his playing career."
