English Premiership outfit Bristol Bears have confirmed the signing of former Cheetahs and Sharks powerhouse Benhard Janse van Rensburg from the 2023/24 campaign.
The 26-year-old will link up with Bristol from London Irish, after the English club failed to prove it has the finances to continue operating and will not participate in any league next season.
Van Rensburg, who can operate at inside and outside centre and also cover flyhalf, is set to join the Bears when they return for pre-season training on 19 June.
He made more than 50 appearances for the Exiles over two seasons, scoring 11 tries in the Premiership, and last season, made six tries assists and beat 33 defenders.
Pace, power, playmaker ?
Big @BenhardJVR has got it all! pic.twitter.com/UB4g5aH7YI
— Bristol Bears ? (@BristolBears) June 16, 2023
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The man, the myth, the mullet ? pic.twitter.com/U6c5COe8Xx
— Bristol Bears ? (@BristolBears) June 16, 2023
“Benhard has been one of the outstanding centres in the Premiership over the past two seasons, so we’re pleased to be able to bring a player of his quality to the Bears,” Bristol’s director of rugby, Pat Lam, said in a club statement.
“I believe Benhard will add real quality to our squad on and off the field. His experience, versatility and well-rounded skill set on both sides of the ball will make him a superb addition to our team. We’re pleased to welcome Benhard and his wife Eljoné to the Bears family.”
Van Rensburg added: “I’m excited to be at Bristol Bears. It’s been a tough couple of weeks for me, but I’m pleased to be here in Bristol and can’t wait to get started with the Bears.
“The facilities here are incredible and I’m looking forward to meeting my new teammates when pre-season starts on Monday. I’m ambitious to grow my game and help the team in any way that I can.”
? “I can’t wait to get started with the Bears.” ?@BenhardJVR is raring to go! ? pic.twitter.com/wdUgDut8RR
— Bristol Bears ? (@BristolBears) June 16, 2023
Photo: @Londonirish/Twitter