Springbok captain John Smit is to join English Premiership club Saracens after the September 9-October 23 Rugby World Cup on a two-year deal.
The Sharks front-row forward, equally adept at either prop or hooker and capped 102 times by South Africa, enjoyed a stint at French club Clermont after the 2007 RWC in France but will feel distinctly more at home at Saracens, where there is a large contingent of South African players.
"I am delighted to have signed for a club widely renowned for the ferocious work ethic and spirit on the field and for the unique way it treats people off the field," said Smit.
"It is becoming a very special rugby club, combining a cast-iron commitment to develop young English players with a clear South African flavour.
"I'm looking forward to rejoining former teammates like Deon Carstens and Brad Barritt, and also to working with players like Jamie George, last year's England under-20 hooker.
Saracens director of rugby Mark McCall added: "We are absolutely thrilled to have signed one of the most prominent and admired players in world rugby.
"John is an outstanding leader and hooker, and I am certain he, Roxy and their children will all thrive in our environment."
AFP
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