Top 14 aspirants Brive are intensifying their recruitment efforts for the upcoming season and have reportedly secured the services of South African lock Irné Herbst. This move comes as part of a broader strategy to strengthen their squad under the leadership of former Sharks CEO Eduard Coetzee, who was recently appointed as the club’s managing director. The team appears to be embracing a trend of adding South African talent to their ranks.
Irné Herbst Signs with Brive
According to a report by Midi Olympique, Brive has signed Herbst, currently playing for Premiership side Harlequins, on a two-year deal. The South African second-rower has been a consistent performer for Harlequins, making over 50 appearances since joining from Benetton. His departure will be a significant change for Harlequins, who recently announced several contract extensions, including that of fellow South African Stephan Lewies. Lewies, a Springboks lock and former club captain, has over 70 appearances for Harlequins and remains a crucial figure in their pack despite stepping down from leadership duties.
Herbst’s move to Brive will see him join a growing contingent of South African players at the French club, including fly-half Curwin Bosch, prop Marcel van der Merwe, and flanker Retief Marais. Bosch, who joined Brive this season from the Sharks, has made an immediate impact, starting in eight of the first 12 matches and scoring 61 points. His performances have helped Brive secure second place in the Pro D2 standings, just three points behind league leaders Grenoble.
Brive’s Ambitious Recruitment Drive
In addition to Herbst, Brive is reportedly targeting several high-profile signings to bolster their roster for the Top 14 campaign. The club made headlines earlier this season by acquiring former England captain Courtney Lawes from Northampton Saints. Tighthead prop Marcel van der Merwe has also committed to the team by signing a contract extension, further solidifying the South African influence within the squad.
Brive’s recruitment ambitions extend beyond Herbst and Lawes. The club is rumored to be pursuing experienced players like former France international Jefferson Poirot, while Fijian sevens star Asaeli Tuivuaka has reportedly agreed to a two-year extension. These moves are part of Brive’s aggressive approach in the transfer market as they seek to establish themselves as a competitive force in the Top 14.
This proactive strategy underscores Brive’s determination to enhance their squad depth and quality, positioning themselves as serious contenders for promotion. With Herbst’s addition and the prospect of more reinforcements, the French club is laying the groundwork for a strong push in the upc
oming season.