Share

Toulon release SA's Barnard

Toulon - South African utility back Conrad Barnard has been released by French Top 14 club Toulon, the team announced on Wednesday, despite effectively saving them from relegation last season.

The 30-year-old - who can play either fly-half or fullback - had asked to be let go a few days ago, according to club president Mourad Boudjellal.

Barnard arrived at Toulon in February last year when the richly-assembled team - bankrolled by Boudjellal - was struggling to stay out of the relegation places.

However, thanks to his goalkicking in the seven matches he played they managed to garner an invaluable point which proved the difference between going down and retaining their place among the elite.

However, this campaign has seen him play just four times, only one of them as a starter.

"He (Barnard) wanted to have more playing time, but with Jonny Wilkinson, Felipe Contepomi and Tom May in the squad, it was very difficult for him to get a place in the side," Boudjellal told AFP.

Boudjellal, who revealed they had come to a gentleman's agreement, was not willing to say how much they had paid Barnard for his departure.

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Voting Booth
Should Siya Kolisi keep the captaincy as the Springboks build towards their World Cup title defence in 2027?
Please select an option Oops! Something went wrong, please try again later.
Results
Yes! Siya will only be 36 at the next World Cup. He can make it!
25% - 1273 votes
No! I think the smart thing to do is start again with a younger skipper ...
29% - 1471 votes
I'd keep Siya captain for now, but look to have someone else for 2027.
45% - 2249 votes
Vote
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE