Sharks strike a deal for Vermeulen
03/25/2025 01:01 AM
Exeter Chiefs forward Jacques Vermeulen has signed a two-year deal with Sale Sharks from the start of the 2025-26 season.
The 30-year-old South African, who is equally happy at lock or loose forward, will join the Sharks after spending six years at Sandy Park.
Jacques joined the Chiefs from the Durban-based Sharks ahead of the 2019-20 campaign and has gone on to make 87 appearances and score 34 tries.
"I'm absolutely thrilled to be joining Sale Sharks,” said Vermeulen. “I've heard nothing but great things about the club's structure and incredible fan base, and I can't wait to be a part of it.
"I already have some good friends in the squad, which will make the transition even smoother, and I truly believe this team has the talent and ambition to achieve big things.
"I'm excited to contribute and give my all for the club, and I can't wait to get started. Sale Sharks are a very physical outfit and that suits my style of play."
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Sharks director of rugby Alex Sanderson said: "Jacques has been one of the most consistent performers in his position in the league ever since he arrived at Exeter.
"His enthusiasm is infectious and he's always been a nightmare to play against and someone we've had to target. He's one of those players you want on your team because of his unparalleled, unrelenting physicality and work rate.
"He's a real enforcer, his ability to repeat physical actions is second to none and he'll complement what we've already got. He can play anywhere across the back five and but I think there's more to come from him and that's really exciting.
"He already has plenty of good mates here, so I have no doubt he'll fit right in. We're all buzzing to get him here."
Photo: Harry Trump/Getty Images
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