After several years in France, experienced hooker Craig Burden is back in training with the Sharks. CRAIG LEWIS reports.

The 33-year-old has been spotted in training sessions with the Sharks’ Super Rugby squad of late, and although it’s understood that he is not under contract, he could receive an opportunity should he impress.

Burden previously played for the Sharks from 2006 to 2013, and while he was included in the Springbok squad in 2012, he was unable to earn a Test cap.

The explosive hooker then spent two seasons at Toulon before a short spell with Montpellier, and he has been at Stade Français for the past three years.

Flying under the radar, Burden has now slipped back into Durban, where he is effectively on trial. With Akker van der Merwe set to join the Sale Sharks after this Vodacom Super Rugby season, it remains to be seen whether Burden could earn another contract at Kings Park.

Photo: Steve Haag Sports