Kobus van Wyk has exited Leicester with immediate effect

Leicester Tigers will see out their double-chasing 2021/22 campaign minus South African Kobus van Wyk who has been granted an early release from the English club for an unspecified reason. The 30-year-old back made just a single Gallagher Premiership appearance this season - versus Saracens in October - but played three times in the Premiership Cup, most recently against Newcastle on March 18.

Terms, though, have now been struck between the club and the winger for a parting of the ways with Leicester heading into the business end of the season out in front in the Premiership and preparing for a round of 16 Heineken Champions Cup tie versus Clermont. 

A Tigers statement on Thursday read: "Leicester have agreed to terms with Kobus van Wyk, allowing the outside-back an early release from his contract with the club. The 30-year-old has made 18 appearances for the club since his debut in October 2020.

"Prior to joining Tigers, van Wyk played for New Zealand’s Hurricanes and had spells with the Stormers and Sharks in South Africa, as well as a short stint with French club Bordeaux-Begles. Kobus van Wyk's release is effective immediately."

Leicester boss Steve Borthwick added: “I want to thank Kobus for his contribution to our club during his time in Leicester. He joined us at the start of this journey we are on and has played a part in building the foundations for what is to come at Tigers. I wish him and his family all the best for the next chapter."

Competition for places at Leicester ratcheted up in recent weeks with their recruitment of the 35-year-old Chris Ashton, the former England winger who was released by Worcester in December. He showed last Sunday at Exeter that he has lost none of his prowess for scoring as his two tries at Sandy Park drew him level with Tom Varndell as the all-time record Premiership try scorer.    

“I’m glad to get a couple of tries. This is a good team so there are always going to be opportunities if I’m doing what I normally do," said Ashton. “I’m honestly at the stage of my career where I’m desperate to be involved.”