Bok wing heads to France

Cape Town - Springbok wing JP Pietersen will leave English club Leicester Tigers to join Toulon in France.

Pietersen, who turns 31 in July, joined Leicester last year and made 14 starts and one appearance from the bench in the 2016/17 campaign, scoring three tries.

After speaking to Toulon, the Top 14 club announced on Tuesday that Pietersen will join them ahead of the next European season.

Leicester’s chief executive Simon Cohen commented on the club’s official website: "We are grateful for the contribution that JP Pietersen has made in his time here.

"His departure allows Matt O'Connor (head coach) a sum within the salary cap for next year and the year after to sign players that fit his vision for the squad and match his playing philosophy for the Tigers.

"Recruitment is a year-round task. We have several players we are targeting who would add considerable value to the group."

Pietersen, who played 70 Tests for the Springboks between 2006 and 2016, has agreed a two-year deal with Toulon.