Rugby:South Africa's Tri-nations winner Jean de Villiers will join up with his new Munster team-mates on Thursday after being cleared by the Western Province and the South African Rugby Union to take up his new contract in Ireland.
“Jean de Villiers is recognised as one of the top mid-field rugby players in world rugby and I’m looking forward to having him in our squad,” said Munster coach Tony McGahan. “He brings a wealth of experience and a skill level that will benefit Munster on and off the field.”
The Springboks closed out the Tri-Nations series with their narrow 32-29 win over new Zealand at the weekend and Western province boss, Rob Wagner, is sorry to be losing a player like De Villers.
“We are obviously sad to be losing Jean,” said Wagner. “As a captain and a player he has contributed significantly both on and off the pitch.”
“Whilst we did everything in our power to retain his services, Jean has made up his mind to join the great Irish Club Munster.
“Western Province Rugby is sorry he is departing, but we thank him for all that he has done for and meant to Western Province and the Stormers and hope to see him back in the future. We wish him all of the very best with Munster.”
The Springbok centre is due to arrive at Cork Airport on Thursday before undertaking standard medical and fitness examinations.
