South Africa U20 international Ruben van Heerden switches to Sharks from Bulls

South African Under 20 lock Ruben van Heerden will make a switch from Bulls to the Super Rugby rivals Sharks ahead of the 2019 season.

The news comes a day after the announcement of the departure of head coach John Mitchell, who has been appointed as the new defence coach of England.

Van Heerden, who has signed a three-year deal with Sharks spent most of his youth career with Bulls and eventually went on to represent them in Currie Cup and Super Rugby competitions.

The 20-year-old also represented the South Africa Under 20 side last year.

Sharks head coach Robert du Preez is delighted with the news and is confident of van Heerden's abilities.

"Ruben is a talented young lock and a great acquisition for the Cell C Sharks," said du Preez.

"He is a natural athlete and has all the attributes needed to be a great lock".