French International utility back Frédéric Michalak re-signs to Sharks – Super Rugby news
South African super rugby franchise Sharks have announced the signing of the French international half- back, Frédéric Michalak. Sharks officials have announced the re-signing of the scrumhalf and halfback in a statement released on their website on Tuesday,
May 31.
Toulouse born Michalak made his professional senior rugby club debut for Toulouse in 2000. During his first stint with the local club, he made 147 appearances for the French Top 14 side in both domestic and European competitions including the Heineken Cup
and Amlin Challenge Cup.
In his 147 appearances for Toulouse, Michalak scored an impressive 493 points before signing with the Super Rugby franchise Sharks at the end of the 2007/08 French Top 14 season. In 2008, Michalak made his debut for the Sharks against the Stormers. He made
nine appearances for the Sharks and scored five points. His season was cut short as he sustained a serious injury that kept him out of the most part of the Super Rugby season.
At the start of the 2009/10 season, Michalak returned to Toulouse, made over 42 appearances, and scored over 213 points for the club during his second stint with the club.
Commenting on his re-signing with Sharks, Michalak said, “It is no surprise that I am here again. I loved my year that I spent in Durban and the cherry on the top was definitely winning the Currie Cup trophy.”
Sharks’ Chief Executive Officer, O Brian van Zyl, has welcomed the joining of the star half back. Van Zyl expressed his satisfaction over the availability of Van Zyl to provide them with the quality resources, particularly when they are struggling with different
sorts of injury and disciplinary issues.
Van Zyl further added, “He will complement our style of play, is a good influence on the players around him on the field, and we welcome him back to our squad.”
Sharks coach John Plumtree has expressed his delight over the availability of the 28-year-old Michalak for their match next weekend. He said, “It is great to have him back and be available to us for selection from this weekend. His arrival could not have
been timed better.”
Michalak has so far made 54 international appearances for the French national rugby union team after his debut against the South Africans in November, 2010. He has scored 252 points that includes 9 tries, 36 conversions and 39 penalties. He has also represented
France in 2003 and 2007 Rugby World Cups.
Earlier on Tuesday, May 31, a Sharks’ flanker had been handed over two weeks ban for his dangerous tackle on the Waratahs’ centre Tom Carter.
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