Wentzel and Fourie join the exodus

The reality of Championship rugby hit home for Leeds Carnegie yesterday as two of their leading players headed for the exit door.

Captain Marco Wentzel was released from the two-year contract he signed in February while Hendre Fourie rejected the offer of a new three-year deal to pursue employment in the Premiership.

London Irish, who Leeds last week reported to the authorities over an illegal approach for their South Africa-born flanker, head the queue for World Cup-born England international Fourie, while Sale and Gloucester are also known to be interested.

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Leeds would command a transfer fee for a player they signed from Rotherham Titans four years ago, given that he still has a year left on his contract.

Wentzel has walked free after Worcester’s win over Cornish Pirates on Wednesday night confirmed the former’s promotion to the Premiership and Leeds’ relegation to the Championship.

Wasps, who have already snapped up Steve Thompson from the relegated Leeds side, are believed to be at the front of the queue.

Chief executive Gary Hetherington, who this week said the search for Neil Back’s successor as head coach would be placed on hold until after a playing and coaching staff restructure, said: “Hendre has always been a tremendous servant to the club and I have no doubt that he would honour his contract with the club if he was to remain at Headingley Carnegie.

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“However, it is only fair to offer him the chance to speak to other clubs given his outstanding contribution over the years.

“We have made no secret of the fact that we would like him to remain at the club to help us return to the Aviva Premiership and have offered him a new long-term contract.

“However, we will now wait to see the outcome of Hendre’s discussions before we begin negotiations on a transfer fee if necessary.”

Wentzel’s departure is by mutual consent with the club needing to trim their wage bill as they prepare for life in the second tier.

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Wentzel said: “The club faces some financial challenges for next season and if, by me leaving, they are able to attract two or three players to strengthen the squad, I understand their position.

“I have spoken to a number of clubs but have not made any decisions as yet.”

The departure of Scott Mathie to Sale has also been confirmed.

The National Two North fixture between Morley and Hull Ionians today is a winner-takes-all relegation shoot-out.

Hosts Morley have a three-point lead and will survive if the game is drawn.

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