Versatile Vermaas Signs For Leinster
Michael Cheika is “very much looking forward to working with” South African front rower Harry Vermaas after his signature on a one-year contract with Leinster.
…Leinster’s new front row signing Harry Vermaas…
Michael Cheika is “very much looking forward to working with” South African front rower Harry Vermaas after his signature on a one-year contract with Leinster.
The 22-year-old – full name Cornelius Hermanus ‘Harry’ Vermaas – has joined the province from the Blue Bulls and can play in all three positions in the front row. He was a member of the South African team that won the IRB Under-21 World Cup in Argentina in 2005.
Vermaas, who also featured for the Bulles in the Vodacom and Currie Cup competitions last season, is Leinster’s fifth signing in the close season, joining former Munster forwards Trevor Hogan and Stephen Keogh, Australian scrum half Chris Whitaker and former Wallaby second row/back row Owen Finegan, who played for Newcastle Falcons last year.
Speaking on Thursday, Vermaas, who is only 5ft 9in but weighs in at over 17 stone, said: “I’m both proud and honoured to join a club of Leinster’s stature. I’ve really enjoyed pre-season training so far and all the squad have been great and have made me feel welcome.
“I’m looking forward to making a big contribution to what will hopefully be a successful season for the club.”
Leinster boss Cheika added: “Harry is a very promising talent who is technically very strong in an area that we were keen to improve upon. He will add greater strength in depth in the front row, and I wish him every success with Leinster.”