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Cape Town - Springbok and Stormers centre Damian de Allende has turned down an offer to play club rugby in Japan during the South African off-season.
In an interview with Netwerk24, the Bok midfielder said last year's stint in Japan took strain on his body and influenced his form.
“I played a lot of matches last year and had four days off before going to Japan. I arrived on the weekend and had to be on the training field by the Monday," he said.
“To get no rest, took its toll on my body.”
De Allende injured his ankle and upon his return struggle for form in 2016.
“I am contracted to the Boks and won’t play in Japan this year, or next year. I must add that the Kintetsu Liners looked after me well, so it will be a consideration in future.”
This follows after De Allende’s team-mate, Eben Etzebeth, also confirmed that he won’t be playing club rugby in England after South Africa’s year-end European tour.
The Stormers lock had been linked to Saracens and more recently Bristol for a short stint, but Etzebeth, who suffered concussion in the Test against England, has now decided to rather use the opportunity to rest.
