Lock Steven Sykes has opted to return to the Sharks ahead of their Super Rugby campaign, following a short stint at Leinster.

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The 27-year-old left the Durban-based franchise at the end of the 2011 Super Rugby tournament but has chosen to reverse the decision and leave Ireland after a new opportunity arose at the Sharks.

“When I got the opportunity to play for Leinster, I really jumped at it and it’s been great,” he told Sharksworld.

“I always knew that I’d want to come back to the Sharks, but didn’t realise I would miss them quite so badly, so when the chance came to join them again, I grabbed it with both hands. I can’t wait to get back there and contribute.”

While he is looking forward to donning the black and white jersey once more, he will face tough locking competition from the likes of Alistair Hargreaves, Ross Skeate, Anton Bresler and Jandre Marais while there.

“There are some amazing young locks, along with some older hands. It is going to be great playing with these guys and I know how hard it is going to be when competing with them for selection.”

The one-year deal will see Sykes re-join the squad ahead of Super Rugby kick-off. He will arrive in Durban for pre-season training as of Monday.