Ruan Is Looking For A Fresh Start

He tells the magazine why he opted for Ulster, despite a number of offers from other (French) clubs,

“It was a decision about which I had to think for a very long time” he says, but he chose Ulster after talking to Operations Director David Humphreys

“I chatted to him a lot and I like the challenge that Ulster will be facing”
“They’re not the biggest clubs but they have lofty goals”

The full article includes insights from controversial Springbok Coach Peter de Villers as well as Ruan’s father, Gysie, the legendary Free State and Springbok full-back andone of Ruan’s former school coaches, Dries van der Wal

A talented player who is comfortable in a number of positions in the back-line, Ruan’s flexibility has, some argue, hampered his international career. With 43 caps to his name he has started 16 at out-half, 7 at scrum-half (his preferred position) and 4 at full-back.

Having been part of this summer's South African Tri-Nations squad until a shoulder injury ruled him out of contention for selection, Ruan seems philosophical about how the move to the Northern Hemipshere will affect his international prospects;

“Many people ask me ‘Why now? Why just before the World Cup?’ But I’ve sat on the bench for many games and played in many positions and sometimes you get frustrated. Now it’s my chance to start all over again”

Ruan is due to arrive in Belfast within the next 2 weeks

To read the full article pick up a copy of October’s RUGBY WORLD , www.rugbyworld.com