Sale Sharks confirms hiring of tallest Super Rugby player of all time

Sale Sharks are adding some height to their group, having confirmed the signing of South African JP du Preez from the second row of the Toyota Cheetahs.

Towering Lock joins the Sharks on a two-year contract and will connect with Sale’s team at their Carrington training base with immediate effect. Jean-Pierre will be available for selection after completing his mandatory isolation period when entering the UK from South Africa.

At 2.09 meters (over 6 feet 10 inches), Jean-Pierre is the tallest player ever recorded in Super Rugby and will be the third tallest Gallagher Premiership player in history, behind 6 foot 11 Will Carrick -Smith and 7 foot tall Richard. Metcalfe.

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Du Preez began his senior career with the Golden Lions in Johannesburg, making his Super Rugby debut in 2015. He then made just three more appearances for the Lions before moving to the Toyota Cheetahs in 2018. During his time with the Cheetahs, JP made 26 appearances in both Super Rugby and Pro 14.

Commenting on Monday’s announcement, Sharks Director of Rugby Steve Diamond was eager to see what du Preez could do during his time in England, saying: “We got hit quite a bit with injuries in the second row towards the end. from last season and with Lood de Jager and Josh Beaumont still out, it was imperative that we find the right person to come and ease the load in that area. JP comes from South Africa with a great pedigree and he’s a huge kid with a good skill set, so I’m really looking forward to seeing what he can do in the Gallagher Premiership. ”

JP du Preez arrives at Sale Sharks, he will be the 11th South African player for the Manchester club and the 44th from that country currently on the list of Premiership clubs.

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