Ross: I couldn't turn down offer

Pretoria - Loose forward Jono Ross says his move from the Bulls to French club Stade Francais will start a new and exciting chapter in his career.

The Bulls announced the early contract release of Ross on Monday, which clears his move to Europe.

The 24-year-old will depart after spending four seasons at the Bulls, while he also represented the Lions as a schoolboy in 2007 and 2008.

Ross is relishing life in Europe next month.

"I really enjoyed life at the Bulls, but when the opportunity came to join Stade Francais, it was a chance I couldn't turn away," Ross told MyPlayers.co.za.

"They are one of the top clubs in France and Europe. They are a team competing for domestic and continental titles, and I'd love to be a part of that challenge.

"I'm busy preparing for my move already. My family and friends are providing great support as they're helping me organise everything. I will arrive in Paris on 1 December, so I will leave the country in a few weeks’ time."

Experienced international players like Italy captain Sergio Parisse and former Wallabies wing Digby Ioane feature in the Stade Francais squad, while four South Africans in prop Heinke van der Merwe, lock Gerhard Mostert, flyhalf Morne Steyn and utility back Meyer Bosman are also based at the club.

"I don't expect it to be easy to play my way into the match-day squad. I will have to work hard to prove myself worthy of selection as there are great players at Stade Francais," said Ross.

"I look forward to working with the likes of Sergio Parisse. They have played many Tests over the years, and I hope to learn a lot from that experience. He's one of the best loose forwards in the game, and that can only help me develop as a player.

"As for things off the field, I can't wait to explore Europe. It's nice to have a few other South African players in the squad and I'm sure they will help me settle in with a few braais, but I'm really excited to explore the culture in Europe and France. I'm already starting to learn the language, so hopefully things go well."

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