Engelbrecht ready for Welsh sojourn
The 26-year old South African international has signed a short-term contract with the region until the end of the season having spent the last six months in Japan with Toyota Industries, and following the completion of their season this weekend he will board a plane and head north to link up with his new team.
The 12-time international will have a big part to play as the Ospreys look to climb the Pro12 table during the Six Nations campaign, his pace and power adding another weapon to the armoury, and he's excited about pulling on the black jersey.
"I'm really looking forward to arriving there, it's an exciting opportunity and I can't wait," said the Springbok.
"Everybody I've spoken to about the Ospreys has only had good things to say. I'm stepping into a quality squad with some really good players, and a good mix of experience and youngsters. It's exciting to be a part of that.
"I've seen how the Ospreys are competing, I can't wait to get there and to get stuck in straight away to do what I have to do, being part of the team environment, something which is big at the Ospreys. To me, the challenge is pretty simple, get there, do what I can, and be a part of the squad."
The centre has proven to be a durable character, not missing a single Super Rugby match for the Bulls in the last two seasons and actually playing every minute of the 2015 campaign. Having headed to the Japanese Top League last last year, he says he is ready to step up to Pro12 duty with his new team.
"I've been in Japan for six months and it's not as full on as the Super Rugby season where I was playing every week, a full 80 minutes. With the rotation of the foreigners, the body is in good shape, rested quite well and I'm pretty hungry to get back out there.
"It's going to be something completely different up in the UK, a different style and I'm excited to see how I adapt up there with the Ospreys. To be part of something new in what looks like a great environment with a good club is a pretty special challenge for me.
"I love running with the ball, I love attacking rugby. I understand that can be a bit difficult up in the north at times, with the cold and the rain, but I'm excited about seeing how I can fit into the team and help them achieve their goals for the rest of the season. I've been talking to the coaches, getting to know the game plan and the style of play, and I want to do as much as I can for the team within that.
"I've enjoyed my time here in Japan, on and off the field, and when you are a rugby player it's good to take new challenges. That’s what I’m looking forward to with the Ospreys."
