Nic Schonert

Prop Nick ‘Sharky’ Schonert joined Sale Sharks on a three-year deal from fellow Premiership side Worcester Warriors ahead of the 2021/22 season. 

The South African-born tighthead began his career by representing the province of KwaZulu-Natal as a youngster before stepping up to play for the Sharks at Under 19 and Under 21 level. 

His form led to a call-up to South Africa's IRB Junior World Championship squad in 2011. 

In 2012, Schonert moved to GWK Griquas and played in the Vodacom Cup and Currie Cup before joining Super Rugby side the Cheetahs at the start of the 2013/14 season. 

After joining Worcester in 2014, he quickly established a reputation as one of the best scrummagers in the top flight and has regularly been on the cusp of England selection after qualifying through his English grandmother. 

He played for an England XV against the Barbarians at Twickenham in May 2018 and was included in training squads for the 2018 Autumn Internationals and in the build-up to the 2019 Rugby World Cup. 

After joining up with Alex Sanderson’s squad for pre-season, Nick said: “When I got the call from Sale it felt like the stars had aligned and I genuinely had to pinch myself to check if I wasn’t dreaming. 

“I’m so grateful for the opportunity to be a part of this squad and just hope I can add value wherever I can.”