South African prop heads to Ireland as nine year PREM stretch comes to an end
South African prop heads to Ireland as nine year PREM stretch comes to an end
Connacht Rugby have welcomed the signing of vastly experienced loosehead prop Francois van Wyk from Bath Rugby.
Following nine seasons and over 100 appearances in the Gallagher PREM, Van Wyk will join the Irish outfit this summer as he looks to bring his years of experience to the URC.
During his time at Bath, Van Wyk has played a key role in the club’s historic treble-winning season, contributing to triumph in the Gallagher Premiership, the EPCR Challenge Cup and the Premiership Rugby Cup.
Prior to his arrival at Bath he had three years in Leicester, and then four in Northampton, where he amassed over 80 appearances.
“Really looking forward to the move”
“I’m really looking forward to the move to Connacht in the summer,” said the 34-year-old.
“The opportunity of experiencing a new country, in a new league, is something that appeals to me at this stage of my career. From my discussions with everyone in Connacht, I’m in no doubt that I can make a positive impact to the playing group and help bring success to the West of Ireland.”
Connacht head coach Stuart Lancaster added: “We’re confident Francois can be a real asset to the group next season. He’s an excellent scrummager, brings huge physicality whenever he plays, and comes with a wealth of experience at the highest level of Northern Hemisphere rugby.
“He plays an important role in a very successful Bath team, and we’re looking forward to him bringing those learnings from across his career.”
Van Wyk will head out the west-country door alongside fellow South African prop Thomas du Toit, who heads back to the Sharks, while English centre Will Butt makes his way further west to Exeter Chiefs.
