Sale Sharks have agreed a deal to sign imposing South African lock JJ Scheepers from the start of next season, subject to a successful visa application.
The 27-year-old currently plays for South African Currie Cup side the Pumas but he has turned out for both the Bulls and the Sharks, with his last appearance for the latter coming against Toulouse in this season’s Investec Champions Cup.
JJ, who can also play in the back row, started his career with Naka Bulls in the Currie Cup before spells with Armagh Rugby Club, Rugby Perugia, the Bulls, and San Clemente Rhinos in the USA.
He also played in Korea for OKMAN Rugby Club as part of the Netflix series ‘Rugged Rugby: Conquer or Die’ before returning again to South Africa to join Easterrn Province and then the Pumas.
Subject to a successful visa application, 6ft 6in JJ has agreed a two-year deal and will join up with Alex Sanderson’s squad in September at the end of the current Currie Cup campaign.
JJ said: “I’ve played in a few different countries but I’ve always looked up to the Gallagher Prem and thought I’d love to play there.
“I look at the rugby and some of the names in both the league and at Sale Sharks and there are a lot of South Africans, like the du Preez brothers, who really made a name for themselves in England.
“It’s a great opportunity for me to join a club that has a great history and is really building something special, to try and make a name for myself.
“I think I spent about an hour on a call with Alex and it was really exciting to hear his plans for the club and what he wants to achieve.
“I would say my big strength is my speed and running with the ball. I love carrying the ball and I enjoy the physical side of the game. I can’t wait to get started in a Sale shirt.”
Sharks Director of Rugby Alex Sanderson said: “When I spoke to JJ I could tell how hungry he was to come over and make an impression in this league.
“He’s been around a few teams and a few different countries but hopefully he can lay down roots here and become part of the team we’re building.
“He’s physical, powerful and dynamic around the park and he’s a leader too. We’re all really looking forward to seeing what he can do.”
