South African wing Werner Kok to join Ulster

Ulster have confirmed the signing of South African winger Werner Kok from the Sharks for next season.

The 31-year-old will move to Belfast on a two-year deal, starting this summer.

Kok has been almost ever-present for the Durban-based Sharks since they joined the BKT United Rugby Championship in 2021, playing 46 games for the side across both URC and the Champions and Challenge Cups.

The former South Africa Sevens star has scored 13 tries in that period, five of which have come against Irish sides, with his high-energy style of play always standing out.

His departure from the Sharks comes off the back of several high-profile signings for the franchise, with Leinster lock Jason Jenkins set to move to Kings Park next season along with Springbok prop Trevor Nyakane and centre Andre Esterhuizen.

A former World Rugby Sevens Player of the Year, Kok won a bronze medal with the 'Blitzboks' at the 2016 Olympic Games but has been playing the XV-a-side game exclusively in recent seasons.

"I am looking forward to starting a new adventure in my career with Ulster Rugby and can't wait to become an Ulster man," he said.

"I want to thank Ulster and the team for this incredible opportunity. I hope to make you proud on and off the field.

"Moving from South Africa will be a big change for me and my wife but it’s a challenge that we are very excited for."

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