Sharks replace Grant Williams with another Springbok

The Sharks have announced the signing of departing Saracens scrum-half Ivan van Zyl ahead of next season.

The six-cap South Africa international will fill the void left at Hollywoodbets Kings Park Stadium by Japan-bound Springbok Grant Williams.

The Pretoria native van Zyl rose through the ranks at the Bulls before securing a move to Saracens in 2021.

The 30-year-old has gone on to play over 100 games for the London outfit, winning the Gallagher PREM in 2023, but his exit was confirmed last week with the Sharks announcing his arrival a few days later.

The Sharks brought their United Rugby Championship to a close with a 54-19 win over Zebre on Saturday, but van Zyl’s focus will be firmly fixed on Saracens still, who continued their march towards the PREM top four with a 30-14 win over Gloucester at the weekend.

Fixture

Gallagher Premiership

Saracens

05:00

30 May 26

Harlequins

All Stats and Data

“Looking at the last five years as a whole, it’s not always been easy, but it has been so worth it,” van Zyl said to Saracens after his exit was revealed.

“Being a centurion for this great club, winning the Gallagher PREM and captaining this side on the odd occasion is something I am very proud of. For me and my family, Saracens will always have a special place in our hearts. I am leaving here with no regrets and peace in my heart knowing that I gave this place and the people everything I had while I was here.

“I want to thank my wife for sacrificing so much so I can play for this club. This will always be Olivia’s first home, and the first team she saw her dad play for. Thank you!”

Saracens director of rugby Mark McCall, who will also leave at the end of the season, added: “Ivan has been an integral part of the squad since joining the club in 2021. From scoring tries in Premiership finals to captaining the side on numerous occasions, he has consistently led by example both on and off the field.

“Ivan’s commitment to the club and the standards he sets every day have made a huge impact across the group, and we thank him for everything he has contributed during his time here.

“Everyone at the club wishes Ivan and his family all the very best as they return to South Africa.”