'He was not made for France' - Bakkies Botha criticises Eben Etzebeth after Toulon exit

Springbok legend Bakkies Botha has criticised Eben Etzebeth after the current international confirmed the news that he will be leaving Toulon to join the Durban-based Sharks.

News broke last week that Etzebeth has signed with the Sharks until 2027 after he was granted an early release from his contract in France. The Springbok has had his fair share of injuries since joining Toulon and made his return for the Club last week only to be ruled out with a calf injury.

The Springbok was branded a 'handicap' by club president Bernard Lemaître in January due to his huge salary and lack of availability for Toulon through injury and test duty.

Speaking to Midi Olympique, Botha criticised Etzebeth and his decision to leave Toulon - who are ranked 12 on the TOP14 standings following their win over fellow league strugglers Perpignan.

"In Toulon, he is still a little injured, concussed and in the end, never plays.

"Obviously, he was not made for France and he will turn his back on the problems the club went through to return to South Africa.

"It's disappointing. I love Eben, I repeat. But you can't say when you arrive in Toulon: 'I want to be champion of France' and leave some time later without having marked the club in one way or another.

"His first season was not bad but it is not enough. When you recruit a world-class player, it's for him to make a difference."

Botha was a Club favourite during his time at Toulon winning three Champions Cup and a Top 14 title.