Venter played for the Worcester Warriors got liquidated, leaving him without a contract. The Sharks were quick to sign the player that led the Cheetahs to the Currie Cup title in 2016.

Venter started training with the Sharks on Thursday after being side-lined earlier in the week due to illness.

The seasoned player said despite being ill, it was easy slotting in with his new team and they in turn made him feel welcome.

“I am really happy to be here at the Sharks,” the exciting midfielder told OFM Sport.

“On paper, the Sharks are one of the best sides I have seen, it's not about how the team can play together. Everybody here was so welcoming and I feel like I fit in. There are so many of the guys that I know and that I have played with before. It was nice seeing the familiar faces and being able to speak Afrikaans again. It's so nice to be back in South Africa.”

Venter added that representing South Africa always remains the dream.

“About the Springbok stuff - yes, the dream is always there,” said Venter.

“I would love to play more international rugby, but it's one step at a time. I just need to try and contribute to the Sharks, play good rugby for them, and give my all to the club. For me, it is just focusing on how good I can be for the Sharks and making sure that I play my part here.”

Venter made his Springbok debut in 2016 and played in seven Tests.

Morgan Piek/OFM Sport