Rob du Preez to leave Sale Sharks at end of season

Sale Sharks have confirmed that Rob du Preez will depart the club at the end of the season to take up a new opportunity overseas.

The 32-year-old South African, who is out of contract next summer, first arrived at Sale on loan in 2018 before making the move permanent the following year.

Comfortable at both fly-half and centre, du Preez has become a central figure in the squad, making more than 160 appearances and scoring 881 points.

He has also built a remarkable record of 76 consecutive Premiership starts – the longest in league history – and last season logged 1,520 minutes, bettered by only two players.

Much of his time at Sale has been alongside his brothers Jean-Luc and Dan, adding to his popularity among supporters.

Reflecting on his decision, du Preez admitted it was a tough call.

“This has been a really difficult decision because of the genuine love I have for the club, the city and my teammates,” he said.

“There will be plenty of time for talking at the end of the season – all my focus and commitment now is on making sure this is a season to remember for everyone associated with Sale Sharks.”

Before his move to England, du Preez played for Western Province and the Stormers, where he scored 483 points in 57 appearances.

He then represented the Sharks in Durban, winning the Currie Cup under the coaching of his father Rob du Preez Snr. His form earned him a debut for South Africa in 2018 against Wales in Washington DC.