Ebersohn swaps Cheetahs for Pumas

Editor

The Pumas have confirmed the signing of fly-half Sias Ebersohn and hooker Marko Janse van Rensburg for the 2017 season.

With the signings, the Pumas now have a total of ten new players bolstering the squad for next year. Ebersohn and Janse van Rensburg will arrive in Nelspruit on Tuesday to join the rest of the team in pre-season training.

27-year-old Ebersohn has notched 74 Super Rugby caps playing for the Cheetahs and Western Force between 2010 and 2015. 

Janse van Rensburg (25) is a talented forward who proved to be a formidable force within the University of Stellenbosch’s Varsity Cup team, and has also played Vodacom Cup rugby for Boland.

Newly appointed Pumas head coach Brent Janse van Rensburg welcomed the pair to the side and said that the players will each add value in their own ways.

"Sias is an experienced player, a leader, and possesses a special skill set and we look forward to his contribution," he said.

"Marko adds valuable depth to our hooker stocks for the physical demands placed on the bodies upfront. He is a good ball carrier and possesses solid primary skills. I am confident that both players have the required DNA to contribute positively towards our culture and we look forward to them working towards earning their place within our team,” said Janse van Rensburg.

Mpumalanga Rugby CEO Pieter Burger added that the signings are all part of the coaching staff’s work in laying a solid foundation for the upcoming season.

“The two latest signings are only one component of what goes on behind the scenes to ensure that we give the sponsors, supporters and players what they deserve – a great team having a great season," he said.

"Sias brings experience and leadership in a key position, whilst Marco with his youth and exceptional talent can bring a lot of energy to the forwards. I wish them and their loved ones all the best, and am looking forward to experiencing their contribution first hand."

Other new players brought into the Pumas set-up include Ryan Nell, Tazz Fuzani, Karlo Asperling, Kobus Marais, Morgan Naude, Luxolo Koza, Ruaan Lerm and Mark Pretorius.