Andre Esterhuizen will depart Harlequins at the end of the current season after four years with the Twickenham-based side. The giant centre will head home to South Africa where he is expected to link up with the Sharks ahead of the 2024/2025 season.
Citing the opportunity to move closer to family as the reason for the change, Esterhuizen will no doubt be missed by teammates and fans at a club where he achieved so much within so little time.
Harlequins Director of Rugby Billy Millard said: “Andre has been an integral member of our squad for the past four years and will be hugely missed. We’re disappointed to lose a player of his calibre, but we understand and respect his decision and wish him well for his career back in South Africa. We have an important run of matches to conclude the season and look forward to Andre’s impact as we strive to achieve our objectives.”
Commenting on his departure, Esterhuizen added: “I’m very grateful to Harlequins for providing me with the opportunity to return home to South Africa and be closer to my family. It’s been a difficult decision but I’m very thankful to the Club for working through the process with me. I have loved my time at Quins, the Club has played a huge role in my development and career achievements, and I have forged incredible memories and great teammates. I want to thank the fans for their fantastic support, playing in front of The Stoop every week is very special and I look forward to my final few months at the Club. Once a Quin, always a Quin!”
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