Leicester Tigers have confirmed the signing of former South Africa captain Jean de Villiers.
De Villiers, who led the Springboks into their 2015 Rugby World Cup campaign before injury forced his international retirement, won 109 Test caps and was part of the 2007 World Cup-winning squad.
Tigers director of rugby Richard Cockerill is hopeful the centre's pedigree can help the club's hunt for silverware once he arrives in Leicester on Dec. 1.
"Jean brings invaluable experience to the squad," Cockerill said. "He is among the leading centres in the modern game and has played at the very highest level for a significant period of time.
Tigers are delighted to confirm the signing of former @Springboks captain Jean de Villiers #Tigersfamily https://t.co/gxPKMYhwKk
— Leicester Tigers (@LeicesterTigers) October 27, 2015
"In recent seasons we've brought in players like Brad Thorn and Lote Tuqiri from successful environments in the southern hemisphere and they have made a significant contribution here.
"The signing of Jean de Villiers is another move in that style and we look forward to welcoming him and his family to the Tigers and to him starting work with us on Dec. 1."