Michael Rhodes

Saracens are delighted to announce the signing of Michael Rhodes from the Stormers.

Michael Rhodes, the Stormers and Western Province forward, will join Saracens at the start of next season, adding South African power to the wolf pack.

Mark McCall, Director of Rugby, said: “We have some time ago identified Michael as a player who could  make significant contribution to the squad, playing in the second row or the back row, carrying the ball and we are confident we can provide an environment where he will realise his full potential. We’re delighted he will be joining us next season.”

Rhodes started his professional career with The Sharks in Durban, and played for the Lions before joining the Stormers.

Rhodes took to twitter to express his delight at signing for Sarries:

Very excited 2 be joining @Saracens at the end of SRugby and thank you for the warm welcome! Still got a big job to do for @THESTORMERS 1st!

Captain Hargreaves hails the signing of a ‘world class’ player:

Saracens captain Alistair Hargreaves has hailed the signing of back row forward Michael Rhodes from Super 15 side Stormers for the beginning of the 2015 / 2016 season.

Hargreaves, who is a former teammate of Rhodes during their time at the Sharks in Durban, believes Saracens have recruited a ‘world class’ back row forward for the 2015 / 2016 season.

Speaking about the announcement of Rhodes , Hargreaves said: “He’ll add a tremendous amount to the team. He’s been on fire so far this season and in the first couple of games he’s been a real stalwart for the Stormers.  He’s been through a truck load of work and he has brought a lot of physicality to the game. – he’ll suit us down to the ground.”

“Michael is a physical player. He does a lot of work for a guy his size. The beauty is he can cover both flanker and lock. He’s undoubtedly a flanker, and in my opinion a world class back rower. He can cover at second row, and you always need depth in those position so for him to do that is great.”

Hargreaves added: “I’m personally very excited, and very excited for the club to be signing players of his quality.”

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