Eli Snyman to join Leicester Tigers' pack

Zimbabwe-born Eli Snyman will join Leicester Tigers ahead of the 2021-22 season.

The 24 year-old second-row will do much to bolster the physicality of the Tigers pack with his 6ft 7in, 110kg frame.

Snyman represented Zimbabwe Schools before crossing over into South Africa where he attended the University of Pretoria. His talents were soon spotted and he was subsequently included for the Bulls set-up in 2015. After a first taste of Super Rugby in 2019, Snyman looked to broaden his horizons and made a move to Italy when he turned out for Benetton Rugby in the Pro14 tournament.

“We are looking forward to welcoming Eli to Leicester next season,” said Leicester boss Steve Borthwick.

“He is a big, powerful and tough forward, with experience in both southern and northern hemisphere rugby, who will be a valuable addition to our pack at Tigers.

“At just 24, we are confident Eli’s best rugby is still ahead of him and excited about the improvement ahead of him, as well as what he will bring to our club on and off the pitch.”

Snyman himself is upbeat about the new chapter on which he is about to embark.

“Speaking with Steve, I am really excited about his vision for the club and I have been following the games so far this season and it has been great to see the team doing well, it’s exciting to know I will be a part of it.”

“When Steve speaks, you know he is a good leader and you want to follow him.

“I am all about the guys around me and a hard working player, who shuts up and gets on with the job.”

“I take a lot of pride in the set piece and am looking forward to playing my role in the Tigers team.

“I am expecting a physical game in the Premiership and looking forward to it.”