The Sharks have completed the signing of second row Ross Skeate from Toulon
Toulon second row brought in to replace Muller
The Sharks have completed the signing of second row Ross Skeate from Toulon.
The 27-year-old has been one of the leading players for the Top 14 side since joining from the Stormers, helping Toulon to the Amlin Challenge Cup final and play-off semi-finals.
However Skeate, who played for the Southern Kings against the British & Irish Lions, has now decided to return to his homeland.
"My desire to play rugby in a team with a blend of international players, learn a new language and improve my forward play took me to France and I have thoroughly enjoyed my time at Toulon which I see as a success," Skeate told the Sharks official site.
"However, despite the team's fortunes, I have a desire to return to South Africa and have chosen the Sharks as the right culture and team environment to continue my career.
"I believe my rugby philosophy and that of the Sharks is very similar and hence my decision to play in Durban. I look forward to it with eager anticipation."
Sharks coach John Plumtree believes Skeate is the ideal replacement for Johann Muller.
"With the loss of one of our most senior players, Johann Muller, we have decided to add an experienced player in Ross Skeate," said Plumtree.
"He is considered a senior player at Toulon, as he was at Western Province, and that is something that stands him in good stead here at the Sharks because of his leadership qualities and experience. He's a fantastic character."
