Rhodes leaves Stormers for Sarries
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English Premiership side Saracens have secured the services of Stormers lock / flank Michael Rhodes from next season.
Rhodes has been a stalwart in both the Stormers and Western Province team for the past few seasons due to his versatility in the forward pack.
Mark McCall, Director of Rugby, said: “We have some time ago identified Michael as a player who could make significant contribution to the squad.
"He can play in the second row or the back row and he is a good ball carrier.
"We are confident we can provide an environment where he will realise his full potential.
"We’re delighted he will be joining us next season.”
Saracens captain Alistair Hargreaves has hailed the signing Rhodes.
Hargreaves, who is a former teammate of Rhodes during their time at the Sharks, believes Saracens have recruited a “world class” back row forward.
Speaking about the announcement of Rhodes , Hargreaves said: “He’ll add a tremendous amount to the team. He’s been on fire so this season and in the first couple of games he’s been a real stalwart for the Stormers.
He’s been through a truck load of work and he has brought a lot of physicality to the game – he’ll suit us down to the ground.
“Michael is a physical player. He does a lot of work for a guy his size.
"The beauty is he can cover both flank and lock.
He’s undoubtedly a flank, and in my opinion a world class back rower. He can cover at second row, and you always need depth in those position so for him to do that is great.”
Hargreaves added: “I’m personally very excited, and very excited for the club to be signing players of his quality.”
Rhodes started his professional career with The Sharks in Durban, and played for the Lions before joining the Stormers.
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