Sharks backline coach Sean Everitt says there have been enough positive pre-season signs from French international, Clemont Poitrenaud, to place him contention for a match-day place in Super Rugby.

The Sharks sprung a surprise when they announced the signing of the veteran fullback, and while the 34-year-old will play a key mentorship role in 2017, he could also have an important on-field part to play this year.

The Durban-based side are set to leave on Saturday for their Australian tour, which begins with a clash against the Reds in Brisbane on 24 February, followed by a match against the Brumbies.

While talented teenager Curwin Bosch does appear to be a strong contender to pull on the No 15 jersey vacated by Willie le Roux, Everitt confirmed that Poitrenaud could add valuable experience to a young backline.

'Clement is definitely in contention for a position in the starting XV or match-day 23. He brings a lot of experience, having played in 49 Tests for France, and with the young backline we do have, someone with his experience at Test level is valuable for us to lead, guide and mentor the young guys.

'He’s a wonderful guy, very popular among his team-mates and he’s surprised the guys with how good his English actually is. He fits in well, has a good sense of humour and he trains really well and brings a good skillset to our environment.'

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Everitt said it was also great to have Bok scrumhalf Cobus Reinach back to full fitness after a serious injury last year, although it remains to be seen whether the Sharks coaches opt to start him immediately or reintegrate him into action more gradually off the bench. Veteran Michael Claassens is the other strong contender to start at No 9.

'We missed Cobus a lot last year. He’s been unlucky with injuries over the past couple of years, but he is back and provides us with X-factor. He’s a good all-round scrumhalf, an opportunist with a good boot as well. But more importantly, he’s been here for a long time, he understands the system, gets on well with the coaches and he certainly delivers on the field. We’re very happy to have him back.'

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