Van Straaten quitting Leeds

Braam van Straaten today confirmed he will leave Zurich Premiership side Leeds Tykes at the end of the season.

Van Straaten, who is in the final year of a lucrative two-year contract with the Tykes, knows he will be unable to play in this year‘s World Cup if he continues to play in England.

That is because the South African Rugby Football Union refuse to select players who ply their trade overseas.

The former Springbok stand-off and centre is hoping that by returning home he will be eligible to reclaim his place in South Africa‘s squad for the World Cup in Australia, which gets under way in October.

Van Straaten says he also wants to return to South Africa because of the “superior” lifestyle it offers.

“My reasons (for leaving) are family and the superior lifestyle that South Africa offers,” he told the Cape Times.

“My wife is expecting our second child.

“The weather in England is so bad that they can hardly go outside.

“I have therefore made the decision to come back (to South Africa).

“I am going to play in the Currie Cup and if I make the World Cup squad, then that will be a bonus.”

Although van Straaten will be eligible to play Currie Cup rugby from June 1, he has apparently not yet decided which province he will play for.

The South African has made a big impact with the Tykes, helping the Yorkshire club to establish themselves as a force in the Premiership this season.

The Tykes are firmly ensconced in the top half of the table, with van Straaten‘s experience and goalkicking ability key factors in the club‘s outstanding season.

A spokesman for Leeds Tykes refused to confirm or deny that van Straaten was leaving the club.