Stormers and Bok prop Koch signs for Saracens

Stormers Super Rugby and Springbok prop Vincent Koch has agreed to play in England for Premiership and European champions Saracens.

The South African prop will join Scotland and former Crusaders winger Sean Maitland at Saracens on two-year deals.

Koch and Maitland will both join on ahead of the 2016/17 season alongside new signings Schalk Burger (Stormers), Mark Flanagan (Bedford Blues) Alex Lozowski (Wasps) and Save Rawaca (Fiji 7s).

Koch, who is currently preparing to face England Saxons with South Africa A, will link up with the English and European Champions from Cape Town Super Rugby franchise the Stormers where the 26-year-old has been capped by the Springbok’s on two occasions.

Speaking about his move to north London, Koch said: “I am very honoured and privileged to join a champion team like Sarries. Ever since I visited Saracens I just knew that they would be the perfect club for me. I’m really looking forward to join the boys for the upcoming season to begin the hard work for the 2016/17 campaign.”

Wing or full-back Sean Maitland will join Saracens from relegated side London Irish. The 27-year-old, who can play on the wing or at full-back, has agreed a long-term contract with the Exiles. New Zealand-born Maitland has 21 caps for Scotland and also toured Australia with the British & Irish Lions in 2013.

Maitland who is currently touring Japan with Vern Cotter’s Scotland side, said: “When I was approached about joining Saracens I had no hesitation in accepting the opportunity to join up with their squad.

“The results they have achieved this season speak for themselves but what really appealed was the burning desire from the coaches to continuously improve and evolve. I think the surface at Allianz Park will suit my game and I look forward to meeting up with my new teammates in the summer.

“I’ve really enjoyed my time at London Irish this season despite the obvious disappointment in getting relegated. There are some great people and players there, and I am sure that the talent within the squad will see them back in the premiership in 2017/18.”

Saracens director of rugby Mark McCall: “Having already announced a number of signings earlier this year, we are pleased to have finally secured each of our targets.

“We identified Vincent as a player who could make a significant contribution to the squad at tighthead prop and at 26 he is a player with huge potential.

“Sean is a highly experienced and proven international three quarter, and we believe that he will flourish here.

“Both players are exactly the kind of characters we think will thrive in our environment, and we are confident they will become key players for Saracens.”