Confirmed: Mapimpi to join Ackermann's new team

TRANSFER NEWS: Springbok and Sharks wing Makazole Mapimpi is one of several South Africans heading to Japan to join Johan Ackermann’s NTT Docomo Red Hurricanes for the upcoming season.

Mapimpi will join the Red Hurricane on what has been reported to be a short-term deal before he joins the Sharks again in April in 2021.

The 29-year-old was part of Rassie Erasmus' 2019 World Cup-winning squad and scored a try in the Final against England.

Meanwhile, the Sharks have lost the services of forward Tyler Paul, who will link up with Ackermann's new team.

The other South Africans joining the Red Hurricanes are Franco Marais and Ruan Vermaak.

Hooker Marais joins from English club Gloucester where he played under Ackermann.

Vermaak, who plays in the second row and loose trio, joins from South African Super Rugby side the Lions.

On Friday, it was confirmed that Bok lock Franco Mostert will also be heading to Japan, but his new team has not been revealed yet.