Sharks hope Steyn is 'fit' to play

The Sharks will welcome back World Cup-winning utility back Frans Steyn with open arms, but the talented player will first have to pass a fitness test.

Steyn returns to the Sharks in July and coach John Plumtree described his return to Durban as the homecoming of a prodigal son.

The Springbok back signed a three-year deal to play in Durban from July 1, and returns after almost three years in France, where he played for Racing Metro.

His return will boost the Sharks in the latter rounds of their Super Rugby campaign, and if all goes according to plan, he is likely to feature in a crunch match against the Bulls at Kings Park on July 6.

"He's not back in the country yet, but we're looking forward to getting him back," Plumtree told a media scrum in Durban.

"He was one of ours before he left and to see him come back is fantastic.

"He is a world-class player who has got so many strengths, and it's just great to get Fransie back."

The 2007 World Cup-winner and 47-Test Bok will have to be fully assessed first.

"We'll have to do some fitness tests and see where he's at," Plumtree said.

"I think when he came back for the World Cup [last year] he was a bit out of shape and it took them [Springbok management] about four weeks to get him into shape.

"He's been playing regularly, so I expect him to be in good form."

SAPA