CONNACHT HAVE ANNOUNCED the signing of South Africa international out-half Marnitz Boshoff on a two-year contract.
The 27-year-old has one cap for the Springboks, playing off the bench against Scotland in the 2014 June Tests.
Boshoff will join Connacht ahead of next season, having played for the Lions in Super Rugby in 2014 and 2015. The out-half is part of the Lions’ squad this year too, but has not featured in the opening rounds of the Southern Hemisphere competition.
The Nelspruit native first came into the professional game with the Blue Bulls, playing Vodacom Cup and Currie Cup rugby with the franchise. It was only after a move to the Lions in Johannesburg, however, that Boshoff earned his Super Rugby debut in 2014.
Boshoff also helped provincial outfit the Golden Lions to a Currie Cup title last year.
The fact that the Lions play an open, expansive style of rugby that very much echoes how Connacht operate under Lam makes him a particularly ideal signing for the westerners. Boshoff is also a highly-rated place kicker.
The 27-year-old has not been first-choice with the Lions in recent seasons, with once-capped Springbok Elton Jantjies seen as possessing more attacking creativity.
Nonetheless, his capture is an impressive one for Connacht, given that the South African would almost certainly have attracted interest from French clubs.
“In the context of where we are and where we are planning to be, Marnitz is an important signing for our squad,” said Connacht head coach Lam. “A lot of time and research went into identifying the right, experienced out-half to fit the profile we were after.
“Marnitz is not only a proven and reliable goal kicker with an outstanding kicking game, but his game management has seen the rise of the Lions in Super Rugby over the last three seasons as well as him leading the Golden Lions to Currie Cup success.
“His experience will be invaluable to our young backline and we’re looking forward to welcoming him and his wife Monique to the west of Ireland.”
Meanwhile, Boshoff expressed his happiness at signing for the province.
“I’m really excited about the move to Connacht Rugby and Galway,” said Boshoff. “From speaking to Pat, I have a good understanding of what the club is about and it’s clear that there is a huge amount of passion and ambition there in terms of where they want to go.
“I’ve watched a lot of the Connacht games this season. The rugby they are playing is really exciting and I believe that I can fit into the structure and add something as well. I can’t wait to get stuck in.
“It’s a big move for myself and my wife Monique but we’re really looking forward to meeting everyone and settling into life in Ireland.”
