Harlequins have announced the signing of second row Irné Herbst ahead of the 2022/23 season
The 29-year-old forward emerged as a clear talent during his time in the age grade programmes in South Africa, appearing for the South Africa Schools and South Africa U20 sides during his time with the Blue Bulls in Pretoria.
The 6’6”, 121kg lock kicked off his senior rugby career with the Bulls in the Provincial Cup and Currie Cup competitions before graduating to Super Rugby with the Southern Kings in 2017 prior to moving to Italy to join Benetton.
Playing in both the European Challenge Cup and Heineken Champions Cup before helping Benetton lift the Pro14 Rainbow Cup in 2021, the physical tight five forward is well versed in the highest levels of Northern Hemisphere club rugby.
Commenting on Herbst’s arrival, Head Coach Tabai Matson said: “We’re delighted to announce that Irné will be joining us next season. We have been looking to secure the signing of a physically dominant second row and Irne is someone we believe will fit in well within our system.
“Irné has proven during his time throughout the age grades in South Africa and within the highest level of club rugby that he is a relentless, hard-working lock that can offer a point of difference for us around the park and at the set-piece.
“When we first spoke with Irné we were impressed by his aspirations in the game; his desire to keep growing and the challenge the English Premiership will present him. We’re excited to welcome him into the Harlequins fold this summer.”
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Harlequins wasted over £1m on some of the worst signings in Prem history
HARLEQUINS have invested millions in the transfer market over the past decade so, naturally, there are going to be some flops.
Fortunately for current Director of Rugby Billy Millard, most of the club’s most useless transfers came before the Spaniard brought them continued success.
Here, RUCK details the five WORST signings Quins have made in the Premiership era….
Harlequins worst signings:
#1. Chris Ashton
Paul Gustard described him as “without doubt one of the most competitive, professional and dedicated athletes” he had come across when he signed for the club in March 2020. The following January, after a handful of sporadic appearances, Ashton was granted early release as he ‘didn’t want to waste the next six months’ at Harlequins.
