Razeen Gutta
Former Sharks star Jacques Vermeulen is unable to return to the UK after documentation for his passport was stolen along with his car in Cape Town.
The South African flanker missed the Exeter Chiefs’ first game of the English premiership rugby season against Leicester last weekend as he was unable to renew his passport after the robbery.
Documentation required for the renewal of his passport was stolen and reports have now emerged that Exeter have had to step in to try and arrange an emergency visa for the player.
Having played Springbok rugby at junior level, the 27-year-old has now become a vital player for the two-time England champions.
Vermeulen has been playing under director of rugby Rob Baxter at Exeter and forms part of a big group of South African players.
Having just signed former Cheetahs man Aidon Davis, Exeter also have forward Jannes Kirsten and lock Ruben van Heerden on their books — both former Bulls and Sharks players in their own right.
Exeter won their opener 24-20, but will hope to have Vermeulen back in training sooner rather than later. It is still not known whether he will make it back in time for their second match against Worcester on Sunday.
Image source: @RugbyAddict
