Waratahs flank Jacques Potgieter will join the Sharks on a two-year deal from 2016.

Potgieter has been a hit in Australia since arriving in Sydney from the Vodacom Bulls in 2014. Often used as a one-off runner during his time at Loftus, Potgieter has become a talented ball player during his time with the Waratahs.

His physical presence and explosiveness in contact was key to their title triumph in 2014. His signing is something of a coup for the Sharks, where his ability to play in the second row or among the loose trio will be a valuable asset from next season.

'Jacques is a great acquisition for the Sharks. He has been hugely impressive for the Waratahs and will add significant value and depth to our loose trio,' said Sharks CEO John Smit.

Potgieter, who started his career in Durban, is pleased to be returning to his homeland.

'I am really looking forward to joining the Sharks. This is the place where I played all my junior rugby and where everything started for me.

'I have great memories of my time in Durban and I am keen to contribute to the team's ambitions in 2016.'

Photo: Mark Nolan/Getty Images