Video: SA back finds new home after London Irish collapse
TRANSFER NEWS: Bristol Bears have signed former London Irish centre Benhard Janse van Rensburg.
The 26-year-old versatile South African midfielder, who can operate at inside and outside centre and can cover flyhalf, will join Pat Lam’s squad when they return for pre-season training on Monday, June 19.
The former Cheetahs and Sharks centre heads to Bears from London Irish, who will not participate in the Premiership next season after the club failed to prove it has the finances to continue operating.
Van Rensburg made over 50 appearances for the Exiles over two seasons, scoring 11 Premiership tries.
💬 “I can’t wait to get started with the Bears.” 👊@BenhardJVR is raring to go! 🫡 pic.twitter.com/wdUgDut8RR
— Bristol Bears 🐻 (@BristolBears) June 16, 2023
During the 2022/23 season, the former Cheetah made six tries and assists and beat 33 defenders.
Bristol Bears Director of Rugby, Pat Lam, said: “Benhard has been one of the outstanding centres in the Premiership over the past two seasons so we’re pleased to be able to bring a player of his quality to the Bears.
“Benhard will add real quality to our squad on and off the field. His experience, versatility and well-rounded skill set on both sides of the ball will make him a superb addition to our team.
“We’re pleased to welcome Benhard and his wife Eljoné to the Bears family.”
Van Rensburg added: “I’m excited to be at Bristol Bears. It’s been a tough couple of weeks for me, but I’m pleased to be here in Bristol and can’t wait to get started with the Bears.
“The facilities here are incredible and I’m looking forward to meeting my new teammates when pre-season starts on Monday.
“I’m ambitious to grow my game and help the team in any way that I can.”
Pace, power, playmaker 😤
ADVERTISEMENTBig @BenhardJVR has got it all! pic.twitter.com/UB4g5aH7YI
— Bristol Bears 🐻 (@BristolBears) June 16, 2023
