JC Janse van Rensburg will join the Stormers ahead of the 2016 Vodacom Super Rugby season.

The former Lions captain is currently in his third season with Bayonne and will bolster the Stormers’ propping resources as of 1 November with Steven Kitshoff having decided to further his career in France.

The 29-year-old loosehead toured Europe with the Springboks in 2012 (without getting any game time), as well as making over 50 appearances for the Lions at Super Rugby level and winning well over 50 provincial caps for the Golden Lions.

'I think I’m a better player for my experience in France, but I’m looking forward to returning home and joining a talented an ambitious team like the Stormers,' said Janse van Rensburg. 'I still have plenty of ambitions in terms of winning trophies [in South Africa] and perhaps also playing at a higher level and I couldn’t think of a better province and union than Western Province to achieve those goals.'

WP director of rugby Gert Smal said Janse van Rensburg would add big-game experience to the Stormers’ front row resources.

'JC brings with him a wealth of experience – both locally and internationally. There is no doubt that we have some of the best young talent in South Africa, but it’s been proven that you need some experience mixed in between and JC certainly brings that to the table.

'Before he left South Africa he was pushing hard for Springbok selection and I expect him to continue in that vein.'

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