Cronje released to the Lions
by Brenden Nel 20 November 2012, 16:47
Vodacom Bulls utility back Lionel Cronje has been released from his contract so that he can take up an opportunity with the MTN Lions.
While the Bulls have allowed the move in order to give Cronje more game time, he can apparently be recalled if injuries in the Vodacom Super Rugby series necessitate it.
Cronje was not named in the Bulls' 53-man squad on Tuesday, and coach Frans Ludeke said it was simply a case of looking after the player's welfare.
“It’s a way to ensure he has more time on the field. We have released him for the good of his career,” coach Frans Ludeke said.
Cronje was part of a trio of players who moved at the end of 2011 to the Bulls from Western Province, with mixed results.
While JJ Engelbrecht remains and became a Springbok, Johan Sadie asked to be released after six months and joined the Cheetahs.
Despite a good Vodacom Cup season, Cronje was given very little game time in the Currie Cup and it is understandable he would be looking to get onto the field rather than sit on the sidelines again.
