Rusike, who recently signed a two-year contract with Portuguese topflight side CD Nacional Madeira, left for his new base on Friday, but not before he could thank the reigning Absa Premiership champions.
“I remain grateful to Chiefs for allowing me to progress in my career, while also thanking my former team-mates for improving my game to such a level that I can now play in Europe,” says the 25-year-old.
“The Chiefs family was good and supportive throughout my career with the club. I have moved on, but I will always miss my days in the Amakhosi set-up.
Rusike, who has played in England, says he will not have a difficult time adjusting to the weather in Europe.
“The weather, language and adjusting to Portugal shouldn't be a problem for me because I have played in Europe before,” he says.
“My immediate target at Madeira will be to cement a regular position in the first team as I aim to play regularly and do well in the Europa Cup. Madeira are a good side. They finished in the top righgt position last season.”