Saints move for van der Mescht

NORTHAMPTON Saints have signed South African Juan John ‘JJ’ van der Mescht Gardens from Stade Francais.

The 26-year-old made 75 appearances in his four seasons in Paris.

The former South Africa U20 lock started his career with the Durban-based Sharks where he worked with Saints scrum coach Jaco Pienaar.

“JJ’s potential is through the roof,” Saints director of rugby Phil Dowson said. “As well as his obvious physical attributes, he can really play ball – Jaco joked that JJ is a fly-half trapped in a second row’s body.”

Van der Mescht said: “I have ambitions to play for the Springboks one day, but I know that starts with improving and performing well for Saints – and that’s a challenge I’m really excited about.”

Saints have also signed winger James Martin, 25, from Coventry, while Samoan back row Iakopo Mapu, 27, is joining Stade Francais.