Pat Lam has moved to strengthen a key area in his squad that needed addressing by signing former London Irish centre Benhard Janse van Rensburg.
The 26-year-old versatile South African midfielder, who can operate at inside and outside centre and also cover fly-half, will join up with Pat Lam’s squad when they return for pre-season training on Monday, June 19th.
This summer Bristol saw midfield options Semi Radradra, Sam Bedlow, Ioan Lloyd and to a lesser extent Henry Purdy, all leave the club, leaving director of rugby Lam with just four senior options to cover 12 and 13 during the 2023/24 season. Fijian international Kalaveti Ravouvou will arrive from the Fijian Drura after his Rugby World Cup commitments to join Piers O’Conor, James Williams and Harry Ascherl and academy star Joe Jenkins in competing for the two starting spots.
Van Rensburg made more than 50 appearances for the Exiles over two seasons, scoring 11 Premiership tries. During the 2022/23 season, the former Free State Cheetah made six tries assists and beat 33 defenders.
Lam, said: “Benhard has been one of the outstanding centres in the Gallagher Premiership over the past two seasons so we’re pleased to be able to bring a player of his quality to the Bears.
“I believe Benhard will add real quality to our squad on and off the field. His experience, versatility and well-rounded skill set on both sides of the ball will make him a superb addition to our team. We’re pleased to welcome Benhard and his wife Eljoné to the Bears family.”
Van Rensburg became available to sign following London Irish being suspended from the Gallagher Premiership on financial grounds that saw them file for administration a day later.
Van Rensburg added: “I’m excited to be at Bristol Bears. It’s been a tough couple of weeks for me, but I’m pleased to be here in Bristol and can’t wait to get started with the Bears.
“The facilities here are incredible and I’m looking forward to meeting my new teammates when pre-season starts on Monday. I’m ambitious to grow my game and help the team in any way that I can.”
