Leicester confirm signing of Jean de Villiers

Leicester Tigers have today confirmed the signing of Jean de Villiers.
The former South Africa captain, who won 109 Test caps for the Sprngboks, had his World Cup campaign cut short due to a fractured jaw and will join the Tigers on December 1.
Originally a wing, de Villiers made his Test debut in November 2002 before settling at centre with Western Province and the Stormers, playing in finals of both the Currie Cup and Super Rugby. He also had a spell with Munster.
Now 34, De Villiers is South Africa’s most-capped centre and has twice been named South Africa Player of the Year (2008 and 2013).
Tigers director of rugby Richard Cockerill said: “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.
“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 de Villiers 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 on December 1.”