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Page last updated at 13:44 GMT, Friday, 16 May 2008 14:44 UK

Saracens sign Springbok flanker

Wikus van Heerden
Van Heerden played in six World Cup games last autumn

Saracens have signed South Africa's World Cup-winning flanker Wikus van Heerden from Super 14 side the Bulls.

The 29-year-old, who could fill the vacancy created by Richard Hill's retirement, will join on a three-year deal in November.

The 6ft 4in forward has won 14 caps and was on the bench when the Springboks won the World Cup final in 2007.

Director of rugby Eddie Jones told the club website: "He's a player who leads by example, on and off the pitch."

606: DEBATE
Jones added: "He also has the ability to play in a number of different positions and having worked with him during the World Cup, I know his high work-rate, knowledge, physical approach to the game and ability to lead from the front will make him a real asset to the club."

Van Heerden looks set to fill the void left by the recently retired Hill and joins Wales forward Michael Owen and England captain Steve Borthwick as new additions to the Saracens pack next season.




see also
Haughton signs new Saracens deal
12 May 08 |  Rugby Union
Saracens 25-20 Bristol
10 May 08 |  English
Premiership play-off line-up
10 May 08 |  English
Hill ready for Saracens farewell
09 May 08 |  Saracens
Farewell hero Hill
10 May 08 |  English
Pennycook primed to tackle Hill
09 May 08 |  Bristol
Bath 66-21 Saracens
04 May 08 |  English
Bristol 21-22 Worcester
05 May 08 |  English


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