Wednesday Afternoon Round Up

After over a decade at the top of the game, Irish centre has decided to call time on his professional rugby career next month.

Downey arrived at Wasps on a loan spell from Glasgow Warriors in February 2015, as injury cover for Alapati Leiua, Chris Bell and Ben Jacobs. His contract at Wasps was then extended after he impressed in black and gold during his six appearances.

 Looking back on his time in the game and most recently at Wasps, Downey said: "I've really enjoyed every moment of being a professional player and have been lucky to have represented some great teams along the way. Being involved with a Wasps side who are now back at the top table, is great to be part of. The squad is a tight group and can no doubt push on for titles in the coming year." 

The 35-year-old retires as he prepares to embark on a new role in the financial world.

Bulls announce two signings

The Pretoria-based side has today announced two signings to their squad.

Jacques Potgieter, who announced an early release from his Blue Bulls two-year contract in the 2012 season, is back home in Pretoria and has signed a two-year contract with the Bulls that has made him immediately available for the remainder of their Super Rugby campaign.

Bulls also secured prop Jacobie Adriaanse. The 30-year-old, who helped South Africa win the 2003 Under-19 Rugby World Championship tournament, will join the club from the Southern Kings. 

Vernon pens new deal 

Scotland international centre Richie Vernon has signed a new contract with Glasgow Warriors until May 2017.

"We've had a bit of success and we're a team moving in the right direction and trying to get better, so it'll be great to be a part of that for another year," said the 29-year-old.

Juan de Jongh out for Stomers

The Stormers co-captain has suffered a hamstring injury which will see him miss out on their Super Rugby derby match against the Bulls at Loftus Versfeld on Saturday.

"He couldn’t run to his full potential. He was battling with it a bit in the build-up to the game but we thought he would be able to play with it," said head coach Robbie Fleck.


De Jongh has sustained a grade one hamstring strain but is likely to be sidelined for only one week.