World Cup-winning Bok signs for Wasps

TRANSFER NEWS: Wasps have signed World Cup-winning Springbok prop Vincent Koch, who will join the club next season from Saracens.

The 31-year-old has 31 caps for the Springboks, which include impressive performances in their 2019 Rugby World Cup win and this year’s series triumph against the British and Irish Lions.

Koch’s destructive scrummaging as part of South Africa’s ‘Bomb Squad’ saw him play a key role en route to them winning the William Webb Ellis trophy.

The forward, who is is renowned for his great athletic ability, has made over 100 appearances for Saracens, helping them to win two European Champions Cups and two Premiership titles.

On the way to their 2017 European Cup success, Koch put in a masterful display in the semifinal win against Munster and was deservedly named Man of the Match.

Koch joined Saracens from the Stormers in 2016, having made his international debut against New Zealand in 2015.

Wasps head coach Lee Blackett said: "We have been looking for a world-class tighthead prop and in Vincent we have found our man.

"We are thrilled to be able to bring an experienced international forward like him on board for next season. He will really add to our scrum and our environment next season, having been a proven winner at club and international levels for many years now."

Koch added: "The saying goes ‘a change is as good as a holiday'.

"Saracens have been amazing over the last couple of years, and I have had great times there, that I will always treasure. But I believe it’s time for a change, and a new challenge at Wasps is what I need for the next chapter of my career.

"I am looking forward to joining Wasps ahead of the 2022/2023 season. I believe Wasps are going in an exciting direction under Lee Blackett and I think I can add to their vision and goals next season."