Sharks flanker Henco Venter to swap Durban for Glasgow

Subject to visa clearance, the 31-year-old forward will line up in a Glasgow jersey from the next campaign.

Venter made 48 appearances since signing for the Durban-based outfit in 2020, representing them in Super Rugby and Currie Cup action in addition to the United Rugby Championship.

He also had spells with the Cheetahs and Toshiba Brave Lupus before making the move to Durban.

"Glasgow has always been a club I've enjoyed watching and admired the way they approach their rugby," Venter, the nephew of 1995 Rugby World Cup winner Ruben Kruger, told the Warriors website.

"The way the team has played this season in particular under Franco has been so great to see, and seeing the results and how much everyone is enjoying their rugby makes Glasgow a place you want to come and play.

"Franco plays a winning brand of rugby, but he also understands that it's a brand of rugby that people in the stands need to enjoy coming to see. You can see how he's blended that this season with the coaches at Glasgow and I can't wait to get involved.

"I've also played with both JP (du Preez) and Sintu (Manjezi) so I spoke to them before signing, and they just said how great a place Glasgow is to both live and play. The enthusiasm (with which) they spoke about the club and the city just makes me can't wait to get started.

"I honestly can't wait to join this club. I want to give back to the club and the supporters in the stand, and I believe this club is capable of doing something special."

Glasgow coach Franco Smith, whose side are preparing for a Challenge Cup semi-final against Scarlets this weekend, is delighted to have recruited his compatriot.

"Henco is not only a top-class rugby player, but also a first-rate person," he said.

"He's an incredibly hard-working athlete and his ability to cover all three back-row positions will make him an invaluable asset to our squad next season.

"He leads from the front and we believe he will contribute a great deal to our squad as we move forward. We look forward to welcoming him to Scotstoun this summer."