Tigers sign Springbok prop

Capped six times since August 2012 – including two wins against England – Cilliers made his provincial debut in South Africa with the Sharks in 2007, moving to the Lions in 2010 and then the Stormers before joining Montpellier in France in 2014. He also played against the British & Irish Lions as part of the Emerging Springboks squad in 2009.

"Pat is a strong guy in the traditions of South African rugby and will bring with him a lot of experience of playing both in South Africa and in Europe," said Tigers Director of rRgby Richard Cockerill

"At 29, he is coming into his prime as a prop and we look forward to seeing him getting down to work here in preparation for next season alongside guys like Marcos Ayerza, Dan Cole, Tom Youngs, Logovi'i Mulipola and Fraser Balmain."

Cilliers, who will move to Tigers at the end of his contract in France this summer, said: "I am really looking forward to playing at Leicester for the next few years of my career. 

"Leicester have assembled an exciting squad full of quality players all over the park and I hope I can contribute towards achieving both domestic and European silverware with them in the future."

Meanwhile, Sale Sharks wing Tom Brady will also make the move to the Tigers next season.

The 25-year-old Brady has made more than 100 appearances in six seasons with the Sharks since making a try-scoring debut against Newcastle Falcons in September 2010.

"Tom has a lot of ability in the wide channels and has a decent try-scoring record," said Cockerill. "We think he can kick on again at Leicester and look forward to welcoming him during the summer."

Tigers have also confirmed the addition of Australia international Matt Toomua and South African World Cup winner JP Pietersen to the backline ahead of the 2016/17 season, while Jono Kitto, George Catchpole and Jack Roberts have today agreed new contracts.

"As a local lad, playing for Sale Sharks has been a dream come true, I have loved my time at the club," said Brady. "However, the opportunity to play for one of the biggest clubs in Europe doesn't come along every day and I'm massively excited at the prospect of joining Leicester Tigers next season. The quality of squad they are assembling and the drive for trophies is something I'm looking forward to being part of."

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