VIDEO: Sharks' loss and gains
TRANSFER NEWS: The Sharks are set to have a very industrious transfer window ahead of the new United Rugby Champions season
The side have already lost the services of Springbok duo Thomas du Toit and Siyamthanda Kolisi due to transfer and now Henco Venter is also set to leave the Durban-based team.
South African loose forward Henco Venter will be making the move to Glasgow Warriors ahead of the 2023/24 campaign, after agreeing to switch to Scotstoun from the Sharks subject to a visa.
The 31-year-old has made 48 appearances to date across all competitions for the Durban-based outfit, having represented the Sharks in Super Rugby and Currie Cup action in addition to the United Rugby Championship.
Capable of playing across the back row, the Grey College alumnus has also enjoyed spells with the Cheetahs and Toshiba Brave Lupus in his career to date, before moving to the Sharks in 2020.
“Glasgow has always been a club I’ve enjoyed watching and admired the way they approach their rugby,” Venter told glasgowwarriors.org.
“The way the team has played this season in particular under Franco has been so great to see, and seeing the results and how much everyone is enjoying their rugby makes Glasgow a place you want to come and play.
“Franco plays a winning brand of rugby, but he also understands that it’s a brand of rugby that people in the stands need to enjoy coming to see. You can see how he’s blended that this season with the coaches at Glasgow and I can’t wait to get involved.
“I’ve also played with both JP and Sintu so I spoke to them before signing, and they just said how great a place Glasgow is to both live and play. The enthusiasm they spoke about the club and the city just makes me can’t wait to get started.
“I’m happy to do whatever it takes to help the team win – I enjoy being physical in attack and defence, and I love to have the ball in hand. An attacking mindset is always more fun.
“The result against Connacht last weekend showed the character of this team, and that character just makes you really want to fight for your team and be a part of everything.
“I honestly can’t wait to join this club. I want to give back to the club and the supporters in the stand, and I believe this club is capable of doing something special.”
Head Coach Franco Smith added: “Henco is not only a top-class rugby player, but also a first-rate person.
“He’s an incredibly hard-working athlete and his ability to cover all three back-row positions will make him an invaluable asset to our squad next season.
“He leads from the front and we believe he will contribute a great deal to our squad as we move forward. We look forward to welcoming him to Scotstoun.”
The Sharks managed to hold onto star-flyhalf Curwin Bosch.
The 25-year-old has signed a new contract with the franchise, which will see him remain at the Durban side until 2026.
Kicking things up a notch with Curwin Bosch 🏉 #FearTheFin #BackOnTheDottedLine pic.twitter.com/jepkN8ZCo0
— The Sharks (@SharksRugby) April 27, 2023
