By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
South African Rugby on Saturday denied reports it was going to buy Springboks captain Siya Kolisi out of his contract with French club Racing 92.
On Friday, website RugbyPass claimed the two-time Rugby World Cup-winning skipper wanted to leave the Parisian outfit.
They also claimed that the governing body would pay a fee to enable the Durban outfit to re-sign the flanker, who played for the franchise between 2021 and 2023.
However, SA Rugby have vehemently denied that and insisted they have not been involved in any possible deal regarding the 33-year-old.
“Media are advised that speculation that SA Rugby is involved in the ‘buy-out’ of the club contract of Siya Kolisi is without any basis in fact,” SA Rugby said in a statement.
“SA Rugby also wishes to make clear that it is not in any way involved in any conversations relating to such an outcome should they, in fact, be taking place.”
Should Kolisi depart Racing, it would see the legendary Springbok end his French adventure after just a year in Paris.
The back-row signed a three-year deal with Racing and joined the club after South Africa’s victory at the 2023 Rugby World Cup.
Much was expected of the flanker but he struggled with injury and form as the Parisians missed out on the Top 14 and Champions Cup titles.
Kolisi is with the Springboks squad ahead of next Saturday’s Rugby Championship opener against Australia in Brisbane.