Francois Steyn signs with The Sharks
Frans Steyn attempting one of his trademark long distance drop goals. Photo by Photo by Anesh Debiky /Gallo Images /Getty Images.
The Sharks are delighted to announce the signing of Francois Steyn, incumbent Springbok and Racing Metro centre, who makes a welcome return to Mr Price KINGS PARK by signing a three-year contract to play for The Sharks.
Amid rumours and speculation doing the rounds, The Sharks were unable to confirm the facts until such time as all logistics were finalised. Rudolf Straeuli, Rugby Commercial Manager for The Sharks stated, “I am pleased that we are able to assist SARFU in bringing back international star players such as Steyn and have him back playing rugby at Mr Price KINGS PARK. I am certain all our supporters will be delighted to see him wearing the black and white jersey once again.”
Steyn will join The Sharks officially from 1 July, 2012. The Sharks CEO, Brian van Zyl added, “The present focus is on depth and ability to actively compete in every position in the squad so we are delighted to have Francois back with us to provide that strength in our backline, not to mention his accurate boot.”
In terms of the team dynamic, Sharks coach John Plumtree, agrees he has much to contribute, saying “It is great to have him back with us as we did miss him. He was definitely an influential player when he left and he will again be that, so it is fantastic to have him with The Sharks.”
Notes
He left South Africa in September 2009, for a two-year and a half year contract with French Top 14 club Racing Metro 92 during which time he accumulated 61 caps. Prior to that, he played for The Sharks from 2006 until 2009. Originally part of The Sharks Academy, which is the breeding ground for young talent, he made his debut for The Sharks at just 18 years old and soon became renowned for his long distance kicking ability and strong tackling. In his short time with the Durban based team he recorded 56 caps and 147 points, while making his Springbok debut at the tender age of 19 against Ireland at wing, when the team was under Jake White. He re-joined the Springbok squad for the 2011 Rugby World Cup and has played 47 Tests with 121 points for South Africa. Sharks supporters will recall that he scored the winning try in the 2008 Absa Currie Cup Final played here in Durban for the team to reclaim the trophy after a 12 year gap.
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