• Kobus van Wyk says it was the "toughest decision" of his career deciding to leave the Hurricanes.
• The South African winger will join English club Leicester Tigers after the conclusion of New Zealand's Super Rugby Aotearoa season.
• The 28-year-old says he initially said no to Leicester but then recieved an improved offer.

South African winger Kobus van Wyk says it was the "toughest decision" of his career deciding to leave the Hurricanes.

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The 28-year-old signed a deal with English club Leicester on Monday, meaning he will leave the Hurricanes after the conclusion of Super Rugby Aotearoa.

The former Junior Springbok played for the Stormers between 2013 and 2016 and represented the Sharks between 2017 and 2019.

Van Wyk recently stated his desire to stay in New Zealand but told the Stuff website that even though he turned down Leicester's initial offer, he had a change of heart after getting an improved offer and consulting with family in South Africa.

"It was the toughest decision of my career. The first time I said no I was keen to stay here. I'd even just bought a coffee machine from one of the boys.

"My first choice was to stay at the Hurricanes but with my faith I always go with that... praying and getting an answer."

Van Wyk also told Leicester's official website that he was impressed by the Tigers' vision for the future.

"They spoke to me about what they are building and that they were keen to have me part of the team going into the future," said Van Wyk.

"They want to get Leicester back up, competing again to win trophies and to have the club in contention, which I want to be a part of and contribute with the boys.

"I haven't played in Europe or the United Kingdom before so I am excited to meet the boys and get stuck in with them and for what is ahead for us in the future."

Meanwhile, Van Wyk's wing partner Ben Lam is also set to leave the Hurricanes after signing with French club Bordeaux.

This weekend's match against the Crusaders in Christchurch will be Lam's 50th and final one for the Hurricanes - and Van Wyk is hoping to give him a good send-off.

"Playing your 50th, and last game for the Hurricanes is a massive achievement for him. I hope the boys can bring it home for him," van Wyk said.

Lam signed a two-year deal in February to join the French club.

- Compiled by Sport24 staff