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| | Wednesday, 29 May, 2002, 16:06 GMT 17:06 UK Montgomery signs for Newport Montgomery has decided his future lies overseas Newport have bolstered their squad for next season by signing South Africa international Percy Montgomery. The versatile Montgomery said that the Welsh club's strong South African connections played a key role in his decision to join them. The 28-year-old, who lines up for the Barbarians against Wales on Wednesday night, has confirmed he will arrive at Rodney Parade in October or November after he completes his Currie Cup commitments with Western Province. He says he has heard great things about the club from fellow Springboks Gary Teichmann and Adrian Garvey, as well as his former Stormers team-mate Andy Marinos - now a Wales international.
"I've been speaking to Teich and Adrian Garvey and they gave me quite a positive feedback from Newport," Montgomery said. "They have all been so positive. They have told me lots about Newport and what a great club it is. "I had the option to play in England or France, but with Adrian and Andy being here and Teich being so positive, I decided Newport was the place for me. "I can't wait. I am really looking forward to playing a part, both on and off the field, in the club's hugely ambitious plans." Montgomery earned the wrath of Springboks coach Rudolf Straeuli by seeking an overseas contract to secure his financial future. The 50 times-capped Springbok alerted the attentions of British clubs two weeks ago by announcing he was seeking a move abroad, although it would mean giving up his international career. Under South African Rugby Football Union rules, players who are based abroad are not eligible for Springbok selection.
"It's always a heart-sore when you give up playing for your country," Montgomery added. "But you've got to think with your head and think for the future - rugby is a short-lived game." Montgomery is the latest in a string of South African internationals to make the move to Rodney Parade. Former Springbok captain Teichmann spent two seasons with Newport, while prop Garvey is currently in the Black and Ambers squad. However, the signing of Springbok scrum-half Joost van der Westhuizen collapsed last year amid recriminations from both sides. Montgomery, the second highest points scorer in South Africa Test history, has made most of his appearances for South Africa at full-back. But he can also play at centre or outside-half and it is understood that Newport would see either of those roles as his primary position. | |
See also:  29 May 02 | International 29 May 02 | International 16 May 02 | Rugby Union 13 May 02 | International 14 May 02 | International 15 May 02 | Celtic Top Celtic stories now: Links to more Celtic stories are at the foot of the page. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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