The Leicester Tigers have confirmed the signing of former Springbok captain Jean de Villiers.

Having announced his international retirement after fracturing his jaw during the Boks' World Cup campaign, De Villiers now looks set to conclude his career in England.

'Jean brings invaluable experience to the squad. He is among the leading centres in the modern game and has played at the very highest level for a significant period of time,' Tigers director of rugby Richard Cockerill commented.

'In recent seasons we've brought in players like Brad Thorn and Lote Tuqiri from successful environments in the southern hemisphere and they have made a significant contribution here. The signing of Jean is another move in that style and we look forward to welcoming him and his family to the Tigers, and to him starting work with us from December.'

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