Du Preez's Durban sacking has had swift consequences in Manchester for his twin sons

Sale Sharks have confirmed that twins Jean-Luc and Daniel Du Preez will join the club on a permanent basis ahead of the 2019/20 Gallagher Premiership Season.

It follows the confirmation on Wednesday from Durban that their father Robert, head coach of the Super Rugby Sharks, was leaving his position before the 2020 season. 

Both Jean-Luc and Daniel had originally singed short-term loan contracts with Sale for part of the 2019/20 Premiership. However, after successful negotiations, the twins have now been released from their contracts in South Africa to allow them to stay in Manchester permanently.

Both twins made their first-team debuts for the Sharks in 2015 and have since gone on to make over 60 appearances each for the Durban-based franchise.

The powerful back rowers have both also represented the Springboks at senior level and offer an immense physical presence on the international stage. Jean-Luc has been capped 13 times by his country while Daniel has made four appearances to date.

Sale boss Steve Diamond was pleased to tie the pair down on long-term contracts. He said: “The twins joining the club on a permanent basis really completes the jigsaw in our pack so we can properly compete and challenge for silverware over the next few seasons. 

“We are delighted to have reached an agreement with the Sharks and I look forward to welcoming the boys to Carrington in August.” 

Jean-Luc and Daniel will start training at with Sale at Carrington from August 1 along with older brother Robert and Akker van der Merwe. Coenie Oosthuizen is required by the Sharks for their upcoming Currie Cup campaign so will link up with the Sale squad later in the year.

Earlier this summer the twins commented on their excitement at joining up with Sale. Jean-Luc said: “I’m really excited and honoured to announce that I will be joining Sale Sharks again. 

“I really enjoyed my short stint with the club late last year, so much so that I have decided to sign another contract in the UK. The club has set really high standards and the squad that has been built is really exciting and signals the clubs intent within the Premiership.

Twin Brother Dan added: “I have heard some really good things about the club from Rob and Jean-Luc and can’t wait to link up with Sale in the winter and play some rugby in the Premiership with my brothers. I’m excited about the new challenge ahead in Manchester and can’t wait to test myself in one of the toughest leagues in the world.”

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