Andre Esterhuizen: South Africa World Cup winner to leave Harlequins

Andre Esterhuizen scored 24 tries in four seasons with Harlequins

World Cup winner Andre Esterhuizen will leave Harlequins at the end of the season to return to his native South Africa for family reasons.

The 29-year-old centre will be released early from his contract and will play in South Africa next season.

Esterhuizen has made 82 appearances and helped the London club to the Premiership title in 2021.

"We understand and respect his decision," Harlequins director of rugby Billy Millard said.

"Andre has been an integral member of our squad for the past four years and will be hugely missed.

"We're disappointed to lose a player of his calibre. We wish him well for his career back in South Africa.

"We have an important run of matches to conclude the season and look forward to Andre's impact as we strive to achieve our objectives."

Esterhuizen, who lifted the 2023 World Cup with the Springboks, has scored 24 tries in four seasons with Quins, who he joined in 2020 from Super Rugby's Sharks.

He was voted the RPA players' player of the year in 2022, as well as the Harlequins players' player of the year and fans player of the season in 2021/22.

"I'm very grateful to Harlequins for providing me with the opportunity to return home to South Africa and be closer to my family," Esterhuizen said.

"It's been a difficult decision but I'm very thankful to the club for working through the process with me.

"I have loved my time at Quins. The club has played a huge role in my development and career achievements."