Durban - The Sharks will boast a number of new faces to go with the tried and tested names for next year’s Super Rugby competition, with a French international adding to the excitement.

Pre-season training has now commenced giving head coach, Robert du Preez, the opportunity to announce signings and re-signings for the new season.

The most high-profile name on the list of new signings is that of French international Clement Poitrenaud, who joins the Durbanites on a one-year deal.

The 34-year-old fullback played 47 Tests for France between 2001 and 2012.

Other newcomers include Enoch Mnyaka (tighthead prop - EP Kings - 2 years), Stormers loose-forward Jacques Vermeulen (3 years), Southern Kings centre Jeremy Ward (2 years), Namibia/Leopards centre Johan Deysel (2 years) and Kobus van Wyk, Stormers Centre (3 years).

Commenting on the new signings, Du Preez told the Sharks’ official website: “The new players who have joined us will ensure that we have much needed depth in certain positions. We welcome them to our family and we look forward to their positive influence going forward.

“We have a young and exciting team who are building for the future. It’s a key focus area for us to retain the young talent in our squad, which will create continuity and stability with our vision going forward.

“With this in mind, I am delighted to announce the names of the following players, who have shown their commitment to the team and our jersey by signing contract extensions."

Meanwhile, players who have extended their contracts include Odwa Ndungane and Rowan Gouws (1 year), Andre Esterhuizen, Benhard Janse van Rensburg, Curwin Bosch, Franco Marais, Jean Droste, John-Hubert Meyer, Marius Louw, Neil Maritz, Rhyno Smith, Stephan Lewies, Tristan Blewett (all 2 years), Hyron Andrews, Mzamo Majola, Sibusiso Nkosi and Thomas du Toit (all 3 years).

The Sharks also announced that Wandile Mjekevu and Neil Maritz will join the Southern Kings on loan for Super Rugby next year.

