Wasps have officially confirmed the signing of Springbok World Cup-winning tighthead prop Vincent Koch from Premiership rivals Saracens.

The 31-year-old will join the Coventry-based team ahead of the 2022-23 season.

Koch has 31 caps for the Springboks, which include impressive performances in their 2019 Rugby World Cup win and recent series triumph over the British & Irish Lions.

Koch’s destructive scrummaging as part of South Africa’s Bomb Squad was key to them winning the William Webb Ellis trophy.

The 120kg forward, renowned for his great athletic ability, has made over 100 appearances for Saracens, helping them to win two European Champions Cups and two Premiership titles.

On the way to their 2017 European Cup success, Koch put in a masterful display in the semi-final win over Munster and was deservedly named man of the match.

Koch joined Saracens from the Stormers in the summer of 2016, having made his Test debut against New Zealand in 2015.

“The saying goes, ‘A change is as good as a holiday’. Saracens have been amazing over the last couple of years, and I have had great times there, that I will always treasure,” Koch said.

“But I believe it’s time for a change, and a new challenge at Wasps is what I need for the next chapter of my career.

“I am looking forward to joining Wasps ahead of the 2022-23 season. I believe Wasps are going in an exciting direction under Lee Blackett and I think I can add to their vision and goals next season.”

Wasps head coach Lee Blackett was delighted to have signed a tighthead prop of Koch’s class.

“We have been looking for a world-class tighthead prop and in Vincent we have found our man.

“We are thrilled to be able to bring an experienced international forward like him on board for next season. He will really add to our scrum and our environment next season, having been a proven winner at club and international levels for many years now.”