Teddy Thomas, Kerr-Barlow, Van der Merwe and Depoortere: the news of the day – Quinze Ovalie

Another day full of information on the planet Oval.

Teddy Thomas joins Toulouse after two years at La Rochelle

The Toulouse Stadium hits hard on the transfer market by announcing the arrival of Teddy Thomas from next season. After two years spent at La Rochellewhere he was able to establish himself as a center with five tries in six starts this season, the 31-year-old international leaves the maritime club despite an offer of extension.

This decision is part of a desire to take on a new challenge within a legendary club. Toulouse, already well endowed with talent, is counting on the versatility and experience of Thomas to consolidate its status as favorite in Top 14 and in the European Cup. A notable start for La Rochelle, which loses a key player from its squad.

Tawera Kerr-Barlow joins Stade Français

The scrum half Dave Kerr-Barlow will leave La Rochelle at the end of his contract to join the French Stadium. 2015 world champion with the All Blacks, he chose to extend his career by Top 14 after seven successful years in the Maritimes. His transfer was confirmed by The Teamwhich specifies that Kerr-Barlow has signed a two-year contract with the Parisian club.

This strategic recruitment strengthens the Stade Français squad, seeking experience to support its national ambitions. Several clubs, including Montpellier, were in the running, but it was ultimately in Paris that the player would continue his career.

(Source: L’Équipe)

Flip van der Merwe leaves his position at Biarritz

Thunderclap at Olympic Biarritz : Flip van der Merweformer Springbok, announces his departure from the club's board of directors due to strategic differences. According to Rugby Ramathe former chairman of the board, who arrived last April, decided to step down after judging that the values ​​and directions of the club no longer corresponded to his expectations.

In a statement, van der Merwe said: “When there are too many cooks, it spoils the recipe. » A decision which comes while the Basque club, evolving in Pro D2is trying to restructure itself on a sporting and managerial level. The club's Supervisory Board welcomed his investment while noting his resignation.

(Source : Rugbyrama)

Return of Depoortere to UBB, uncertainties before Montpellier

HAS Bordeaux-Bèglesthe squad is preparing to face Montpellier with valuable feedback but also major uncertainties. One of the notable events is the return of Nicolas Depoorterea 21-year-old center, after a facial fracture. This reinforcement comes at the right time to strengthen the Gironde center.

However, notable absences complicate the task of the UBB. Damian Penaudconvalescing after a pulmonary infection, and Romain Burosinjured in the thigh, are withdrawn. For his part, Matthieu Jalibert remains doubtful due to a crutch contracted during the last match. Despite these obstacles, Bordeaux-Bègles, buoyed by the return of international players like Louis Bielle-Biarrey and Maxime Lucu, hopes to confirm its current form after its victory against Vannes.