Stander signs Force extension

The abrasive forward joined the Western Force for the 2014 Super Rugby season, and has amassed 20 caps for the franchise over the past two seasons.

The versatile flank, renowned for his strong defence and high work rate, has been a regular fixture in the Western Forces' matchday squad for the past two years.

The re-signing follows the news of fellow South Africans Francois van Wyk and Marcel Brache's recommitment to the Force last week.

Stander, whose 2015 campaign was disrupted by ankle and shoulder injuries, says he's excited about continuing with the Western Force.

"The first two years here have flown by, and it's great to have another chance to stay on," Stander said.

"Personally, I didn't feel like I had the best season last year, with it being disrupted by injuries, so it's great that the boys and coaches have the faith to re-sign me. I'm very keen to start the season fresh and repay that faith.

"I'm very excited about the next two seasons. I love living in Perth, I feel like I've settled here well and this has become home for me now.

"This is a great squad to be a part of and I feel like we have a really good balance in our dynamic back row.

"While we were obviously disappointed [last season] it's only made us more hungry for next year when we get a chance to make it right."

Western Force coach Michael Foley says Stander is a member of a high-quality loose forward unit at the club.

"Brynard's power and physicality are a point of difference, and over the last two seasons, he's developed a good understanding of all three loose forward roles," he said.

"He has a burning desire to win and an ambition to see the club become successful."