Sharks sign Bok scrum-half

The Sharks have signed former Springbok scrumhalf Michael Claassens and also welcome back loose forward Jean Deysel, the franchise said on Monday.

Claassens, 32, spent the last two years with French giants Toulon and has penned a two-year deal. He is expected to join the team as soon as his playing commitments in France are concluded.

"Michael is an experienced scrum-half who will add great value and depth to our squad as well as mentor our very talented young scrum-halves," Sharks CEO John Smit said.

"He has been playing well for Toulon and we look forward to welcoming him to the black and white."

Deysel, who had been capped 117 times for the Durban side in Super Rugby, left last season to play for Toyota Verbiltz in Japan.

"We all knew it was a tough decision for Jean to make when he departed last year, as his heart has always been with the Sharks," Smit said.

"We were very sad to lose a player of his calibre and you can imagine our delight that this loyal servant of Sharks Rugby has agreed to return home."

Apart from Deysel's playing attributes, Smit said he also brought experience and strong leadership to the team environment.

The Sharks open their Super Rugby season against the Cheetahs in Durban this Saturday.