Cape Town - His desire to play for the Springboks and his love for Western Province made Frans Malherbe decide to keep playing his rugby in Cape Town.

According to Netwerk24, Malherbe turned down a lucrative offer to go and play in France for ambitious Top 14 club Toulon.

The 24-year-old was earlier this week named Stormers co-captain alongside Juan de Jongh and is also expected to replace Jannie du Plessis in the Springbok front row this year, with the latter now plying his trade in France.

But Malherbe, who has had his fair share of injuries, is taking nothing for granted.

“I told someone the other day that you are never certain of your place in the Bok squad. For that honour to be bestowed upon you, you have to play well in Super Rugby,” he said.



Representing the union he grew up supporting is also an honour for Malherbe.

“I was born in this union, grew up here and have supported Western Province and the Stormers since I started watching rugby. Not many players have the privilege to play for the team they supported from a young age.

“I want to now try and make a difference after the injuries I suffered in 2013 and 2014. It’s still uncertain whether South Africans playing overseas will be picked for the Boks. What that essentially means is that I want to be here and play as many Tests as possible for the Boks.”

Malherbe has played 12 Tests for the Springboks since making his debut against Wales in Cardiff in November 2013.