Springbok AJ Venter is set to resist the lure of a big money move to the Zurich Premiership with news of a new contract from SA Rugby.

The South Africa lock had reportedly been subject to several moves from some of Englad's top clubs over a possible move since his heroics for South Africa against England at Twickenham.

The Cape Times reports that after being overlooked in the recent contracting process and the initial selection of the tour squad, there were fears Venter might decide to pack his bags.

Sharks chief executive Brian van Zyl had revealed earlier that Venter was stalling on re-signing with the Sharks until there was clarity over his national future. His present Springbok deal expires at the end of the month.

But Butch Watson-Smith, SA Rugby's general manager of national teams, says Venter is one of four players national coach Rudolf Straeuli has indicated he wants to sign after South Africa's disastrous European tour.

The others are Blue Bulls lock Victor Matfield, Lions wing Dean Hall and Sharks hooker Lukas van Biljon. Watson-Smith said Cats loose forward Bob Skinstad and Sharks front-ranker John Smit will both be offered new contracts when they come off their injury clauses.

Contracted SA Rugby players (all until November 2003 unless indicated): Bolla Conradie, Neil de Kock, Werner Greeff, Butch James, Marius Joubert (November 2004), Corne Krige, Jannes Labuschagne, Breyton Paulse, Andre Pretorius (November 2004), Brent Russell, Lawrence Sephaka (November 2004), Joe van Niekerk (November 2004).

Injured: Bob Skinstad, John Smit.

Players to be offered contracts: AJ Venter, Victor Matfield, Dean Hall, Lukas van Biljon.