Worcester sign former Springbok centre Olivier

Former Springbok centre Wynand Olivier has agreed a move to England where he will play English Premiership Rugby for Worcester Warriors.

The former Blue Bulls centre will join Worcester immediately ahead of Warriors’ clash with Wasps this Saturday 26 September.

Olivier has represented South Africa 38 times with his last appearance coming in June 2014 in a win over Wales.

The 32-year-old was part of the Springboks’ World Cup-winning squad in 2007, in which he made three appearances during the competition.

At club level, Olivier was a key component of a successful Bulls side in his home country from 2005 to 2013, where he tasted both Super Rugby and Currie Cup success with the province.

He then moved to France for two seasons with Montpellier making 38 appearances and featuring alongside new Warriors prop Na’ama Leleimalefaga.

He said,”Sixways is an exciting place to be with all the changes and developments taking place.

“The vision of the Club is something that appeals to any professional athlete and I can’t wait to compete for my place in the squad.

“I want to help push Warriors to be successful in the Aviva Premiership.”

Olivier has already featured at Sixways earlier this month for the world-famous Barbarians side that edged Warriors 43-35 in a pre-season encounter.

And Director of Rugby Dean Ryan added,”Wynand is another example of a player that brings international and European experience which is essential to the balance of a successful squad.

“He will add competition to places in the centre while also being able to contribute to the development of some of our youngsters.”