Springbok back Francois Steyn has re-signed for the Sharks almost three years after leaving to play in Europe, the club announced on Monday.
The 25-year-old, a World Cup winner with South Africa in 2007, has signed a three-year deal in Durban and will link up with his new team-mates on July 1.
He left the Sharks in 2009 to play for French club Racing Metro.
Steyn has played more than 50 times for the Sharks in various positions across the backline, including fullback, flyhalf and centre, while he also has 147 points for the club at senior level.
“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,” chief executive officer, Brian van Zyl said.
The Eastern Cape-born Steyn is already a veteran Springbok jersey with 47 caps, having made his debut at the age of 19.
Sharks coach John Plumtree was also pleased with the signature, adding: “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.” – Sapa