Sharks flyhalf Tim Swiel will play for English Premiership club Harlequins for four months.

He joined the team on Saturday and will return to Durban at the end of February.

'This is a fantastic opportunity for Tim, and I am certain that this experience at a top club will provide him with great memories and will bode well for him in the future,' said Sharks CEO John Smit.

Swiel added: 'I am looking forward to playing for Harlequins for a few months during the Sharks off-season.

'Due to injury, I did not get a lot of game-time during this year’s Currie Cup and both my coaches at the Sharks and I agree that regular game-time during this off-season will enhance my preparation and provide the necessary momentum needed for Super Rugby.'

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