VIDEO: Cheetahs star joins Pro14 rivals
TRANSFER NEWS: Ospreys are finally able to announce the signing of Shaun Venter on a two-year deal after a prolonged delay due to difficulties with the Governing Bodies and UK Border Agency.
Venter joins the Ospreys from the Cheetahs and brings a wealth of experience and physicality to the region. During his career, the South African born player has played in a variety of positions including fullback, centre and as a wing before settling at scrumhalf.
The 32-year-old joins an Ospreys side who travel to Dublin this weekend after a playing career that has led him to represent his country in rugby sevens and South African Barbarians. Venter has had stints at Pumas, Southern Kings and Cheetahs before joining the South Wales region at the start of their Pro14 and Champions Cup campaign.
Rugby General Manager Dan Griffiths has been working through the situation but has spoken of his delight in finally getting the signing over the line, he said: “Having completed the deal in July, it’s been an extremely frustrating wait for both Shaun and the club. He has, however, been a quality performer in both Pro14 and Super Rugby, and we are delighted to finally add him to the squad.
“With Aled Davies away on international duty, Shaun brings experience and leadership in a key position. Not only will he to add to team performance, but also support the development of the exciting young talent we have at scrum half. His physicality and ability to challenge defenders is an exciting prospect for both players and supporters at the Ospreys.”
Venter joins fellow South African players Tom Botha and Hanno Dirksen at the Ospreys and Head Coach Allen Clarke welcomed the Utility Back’s addition to his squad, he added: …
Having made the move from Bloemfontein to Swansea, after the delay in his arrival, Venter is now looking to making his mark on the field, he told OspreysTV: “I’m ecstatic, I got off to a good start with the boys and everyone’s been very welcoming.
When asked about his style of play, Venter added: “I would like to say I’m a running 9, taking chances around the rooks. I’ve got a good kicking foot on me, I think and I love scoring tries.”
