Confirmed: Esterhuizen to join Quins

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Andre Esterhuizen says it is the right move for him to ‘develop his career’ after agreeing to join English club Harlequins ahead of the 2020-21 season.

As reported earlier this week, Quins have won the race to sign Esterhuizen on a mega-money deal, with the burly Springbok centre set to move abroad after this Vodacom Super Rugby season.

‘When the opportunity to play for Harlequins came up, I knew it was the right move for me to develop my career and get the chance to play in the Premiership, as well as experience the European competition, which have always been dreams of mine,’ he stated.

‘Paul Gustard and his team are building something special there and to have the chance to work with a young and dynamic coaching group such as Nick Evans and Sean Long is really exciting and I can’t wait to run out at The Stoop and show them what I can bring to the team.’

Head of Rugby at Harlequins, Paul Gustard said: ‘Andre is an incredible signing for Harlequins. He is a current Springbok who has the ability to change any game through his raw power and strength in the contact areas. His physical abilities are impressive enough, but we were further attracted by his capacity to be a second playmaker, distributing before and through the line.

‘He is a fantastic talent and his addition to our squad is very exciting.

‘Besides his ability on the field, which are without debate, he is a tremendous human being. He has the character that we want and at 25 is entering his prime as a player.

‘He will join a back line that we feel can grow together and develop into an elite unit with the likes of Langy, March, Marcus, Gabs and Cadan amongst others whom we foresee and want to be at the Club for a long time, developing a deep understanding of each other and build strong friendships.

‘We look forward to welcoming André and his young family to the Club as he embarks on a new journey in his career.’

Photo: Gallo Images

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SA Rugby magazine