New blue Sykes wants to play for Ireland

LEINSTER have offset the upcoming departure of Scottish lock Nathan Hines to Clermont Auvergne by signing Natal Sharks second-row Steven Sykes, who wants to represent Ireland.

Sykes has played for the Emerging Springboks and was an unused replacement for South Africa’s final test match against the Lions in 2009 and has been a constant presence with the Sharks in recent seasons, making over 130 appearances.

“I believe it is a good career and personal move,” he said. “I want to play international rugby and it would be a fantastic honour to play for Ireland if it came about. Before any of that though I am really excited to play for Leinster. I really believe it is the right move for me.”

The worst-kept secret in Irish rugby was also confirmed yesterday with the news Connacht’s Jamie Hagan has agreed a three-year deal with Leinster. The tight-head prop and Sykes will be joined by Matt Berquist.

The Canterbury Crusaders out-half faced Sykes in Twickenham as a replacement in Sunday’s Super 15 clash against the Sharks but has had to make do with limited game time behind Dan Carter and has penned a one-year deal with an option to extend.

Aged 27, Berquist joined the Canterbury Crusaders in 2010, having also played for Hawke’s Bay, Otago and Auckland. He made his provincial debut in 2003 and has played 67 times at provincial level with a further 21 caps at Super 14/15 level.

“We are pleased to secure Steven’s signature and this is a further welcome boost coming off the back of retaining some of our senior and up-and-coming players in recent weeks,” said Leinster coach Joe Schmidt.

“Steven has gained a wealth of experience at Super 15 level in recent years and, at 26, we believe his best years are still to come. He is an ambitious and talented player who is excited about joining the province.

“Jamie’s desire to return to the province of his birth after an impressive spell with Connacht is another important acquisition for the panel. Our coaching team have been impressed by the level of his performances again this year and we believe he has the potential to improve further.

“Matt has been understudy to Dan Carter at the Crusaders this year, which limits any player’s game time a little. But he has proven quality and experience in the NPC and Super 15 and he will provide further competition for our established and up-and-coming out-halves.”