Gloucester sign Sharks Hooker

Gloucester Rugby have confirmed their latest recruit to put pen to paper in joining the Cherry and Whites for next season, with Franco Marais arriving this summer from Super Rugby's Sharks.

Gloucester have secured the signing of the hooker as they add to their front row resources for next season, and he will link up with the club this summer following his commitments in Super Rugby. 

Hooker Marais links up with the Cherry and Whites after making his breakthrough with the Sharks in Durban, making his debut in 2014. 

Described by the franchise as a player 'destined for a big career', Marais was part of the South African U20 squad that won the World Rugby U20 Championship on home soil in 2012, before going on to make his Sharks debut that season in both the Currie Cup and then into Super Rugby. 

Marais began the new Super Rugby season as the Sharks' first-choice hooker, and impressed in the opening rounds with his work at the lineout, physicality around the field and prowess around the breakdown area.

Director of Rugby David Humphreys confirmed the exciting news of the capture of the hooker with his best years ahead of him.  "We're thrilled to confirm that Franco will be joining the club, he's a player that has captured a lot of attention in Super Rugby with his work at the set piece, and he is excited to be a part of what we're hoping to achieve here at Gloucester moving forward. 

"Johan [Ackermann] is well aware of Franco's qualities as a player and as an individual, and the way he has been progressing in Super Rugby. We're delighted that he's going to come and join us at Kingsholm."