Newcastle Falcons bring in Mouritz Botha

Newcastle Falcons have secured the signing of England international Mouritz Botha.
The lock, 33, joins from Super Rugby side the Sharks where he spent the past seven months after leaving Saracens.
He said: “I’m very excited to join the Falcons. Newcastle are in a position to make a real impact on the Premiership this year and I am looking to help them rise up the table and push for a place in Europe.”
“I want to contribute to the growing success of the club and I am also exited to learn from Dean while making the transition from player to coach eventually.”
Director of Rugby Dean Richards added: “I’m very pleased to have been able to secure Mouritz’s services; he is a proven talent at the highest levels of the game and will add another dimension to our second row options.”
“He has a vast array of experience in two of rugby’s best club competitions and we are looking forward to seeing him deliver the sort of performances that were his trademark during his time with Saracens.”
“With three other full internationals alongside him, we have a very deep talent pool to draw on this season at lock alongside some exciting young prospects who will only benefit from having Mouritz around.”