Stringer signs for Worcester

Worcester Warriors have announced the signing of Ireland international Peter Stringer on a six-month contract ahead of the 2017/18 season.

The scrum-half will join this week as cover for Francois Hougaard who is set to be away on Springbok duty during the start of the campaign.

Stringer has a heap of experience in the game having played 98 Tests for Ireland, which has included a Grand Slam and three Triple Crowns.

After having made his debut in 2000, he went on to play 76 of Ireland’s 85 games between then and 2006 and played at two Rugby World Cups.

Stringer began his professional journey with Munster  back in 1998 – the same year as Warriors lock Donncha O’Callaghan.

The number nine went on to spend 15 years at his hometown side where he won three Celtic League titles and reached four Heineken Cup finals – finishing on the winning side twice.

After amassing 230 appearances for Munster, Stringer enjoyed loan spells at Saracens and Newcastle Falcons in the 2011/12 season before signing for Bath in 2013.

He played 62 times for the West Country outfit before making the move north to Sale Sharks – where he featured 39 times and picked up a Player of the Season award in 2015/16.

The 39-year-old has also represented the illustrious Barbarians.

Warriors Director of Rugby Gary Gold said: “Peter is an experienced number nine who will play a key role in the absence of Francois.

“He’s in incredible physical shape for someone of 39 years of age, and he is an outstanding role model for our younger players.”

Stringer added: “I’m looking forward to meeting all the lads and being reunited with Donncha.

“I’m feeling as fit and ready as ever and am genuinely excited about getting back on the field as I feel I still have plenty to offer.”