Exeter Chiefs sign Jannes Kirsten on one-year deal from Bulls

Exeter Chiefs have announced the signing of South African lock Jannes Kirsten from Super Rugby club Bulls ahead of the 2019/20 season.

Kirsten, who can also play in the back-row has penned a one-year deal becoming the sixth signing of the Sandy Park outfit ahead of the new season.

“I’m looking forward to the challenge,” said Kirsten to the official website of the club.

“I’ve been waiting a while for the visa, but now that has been sorted, it’s great to be here and to be part of what is a winning team.

“The Premiership is a top-quality league and there are some great sides over here.

“If you ask any South African player, they want to come here and have a taste of the Premiership. They want to see how they go because it’s a great challenge, but one which ultimately makes you improve as a player.”

Kirsten made his professional rugby debut in 2013 for Blue Bulls with his Super Rugby debut coming in 2016. He also had a brief stint with Japanese side Toyota Verblitz in 2018.

Tom Price, Will Witty, Stuart Hogg, Stan South and Jordon Poole are the other signings secured by Exeter Chiefs ahead of the 2019/20 season.