Heinrich Brüssow has decided to extend his contract with Free State for another year.

Brilliant

The Springbok flanker had a big offer from the Sharks as well as numerous options overseas.

However, the 23-year-old, who is determined to play for South Africa in next year’s World Cup, says he’s still young and will not necessarily go and play overseas after the tournament.

Brüssow, who is expected to return from injury near the end of the Currie Cup, would like to be part of the World Cup squad.

“To play in the World Cup is huge. The fact that I have played for Free State for a long time also played a role. It’s easy to stick to something that I’m used to,” said the fetching flank.

Brüssow believes a move shortly before the tournament could impact negatively on his chances of making the Bok squad.

“It probably won’t be the right decision to change teams in World Cup year.”

Springbok coach Peter de Villiers will also be happy with Brüssow’s decision.

De Villiers does not want to pick players plying their trade overseas and had a go at the standard of club rugby in the Northern Hemisphere this week.

Brüssow said he grew up in the Free State and is happy there.

“I know the set-up at the Cheetahs. My friends, family and girlfriend are here and I enjoy it a lot.”

A Springbok exodus overseas after the World Cup is nothing new.

While he believes it’s too early to discuss is, Brüssow believes he still has a lot of time to go overseas.

“I’m still young and I don’t really want to go overseas now. Maybe I will do it later in my career,” he said.

Brüssow suffered a serious knee injury in the Super 14 and it was initially thought that he would not play rugby again in 2010.

“The doctors said that I would only be able to play next year, but hopefully I can return by the end of the Currie Cup if all goes well,” he said.

We understand that Brüssow will be ready to take full contact by November  1 and will therefore be able to be considered for the Boks’ European tour.