Edward Griffiths confirms Schalk Brits stay at Saracens – Rugby news
Saracens Chief Executive Officer, Edward Griffiths, has confirmed that former Springboks hooker, Schalk Brits, will remain at the club.
Earlier on Wednesday, July 13, the 2010/11 Aviva Premiership Champions announced the signing of the Springboks World Cup winning captain and hooker John Smit with the club on a two-year deal. Following Smit’s signing, speculation started that the Saracens
might part ways with Brits. However, Griffiths confirmed that the duo will play for the Saracens next season.
Griffiths said, “There is no question of Schalk Brits moving on.”
Brits played an important role in the club’s success in the 2010/11 Aviva Premiership and Heineken Cup campaign. He was nominated for the 2010/11 Aviva Premiership Player of the year award and won the title in his debut Premiership season in 2009/10.
A few weeks back, Saracens loaned the Brits to the injury struck South African Super Rugby franchise Stormers and he ended up playing for the Stormers in the 2011 Super Rugby Finals.
Griffiths further added, “We are constantly looking to strengthen, and although Schalk Brits is one of the best players in the world in his position, we were aware that we needed more depth in that position.”
Griffiths hinted that the Saracens will accommodate both players in their starting xv. He said, “We operate a rotation system at Saracens anyway and we are absolutely clear and confident that we have space and can accommodate two world-class players in most
of the positions, certainly at hooker.”
Earlier in the 2011 Super Rugby season, John Smit had played a few matches for Sharks at the prop position and this might be a role he could take up again at his new club.
Griffiths termed Smit’s signing with the Saracens as beneficial to the Premiership. He said, “The Premiership needs star quality and John Smit certainly provides that. He is an outstanding rugby player, also an outstanding person and a leader.” Griffiths
has expressed hope that Smit will play his part in developing a strong unit and in the development of the younger players.
In addition to Smit, other signings made by Saracens for next season include Charlie Hodgson, Mako Vunipola, Marcus Watson, Nemia Kenatale, Joe Maddock, and Duncan Taylor.
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