Well, I’ll admit I was expecting an announcement of this sort, but the destination club is perhaps not what I would have thought.
The Sharks have confirmed an early release for veteran loose forward Jean Deysel, who joins Ulster in Belfast on a two-year deal. Deysel has been on loan to rival Irish side Munster for the last few months and with the Sharks announcing the signature of another young flanker in Tyler Paul just last week, it was perhaps inevitable that Deysel would not be coming back.
I would have expected an extension in Limerick, but a move north to the red and white of Ulster, where he will join up with former team mates Wiehahn Herbst and Marcell Coetzee, seems to be an even better fit.
Deysel has represented the Sharks well over 100 times across Super Rugby and Currie Cup and will be missed as a man of integrity and character. His last move overseas – to Japan – had to be curtailed rather dramatically due to serious family health issues and I’m personally very glad for “Wolscooter” that he’ll have another bite at the cherry as his playing days draw to a close.
Wolla – thanks for everything, my friend and . I wish you nothing but the best for the future.

A player who always have 100% for the Sharks. All the best in Ireland.
Cheers Jean, one of my modern day Sharks favourites. Hope it is a happy move.
Methinks I will have to start watching more Euro rugby since so many of my favourite players are now there… sad days….
Sadly underutilised by a succession of Bok coaches. All of the best overseas!
Go well Jean, you were always one of my very favorite Sharks you will be missed, but you have earned this new chapter in your life.
Will definitely have to start watching Ulster now.
Some of these Euro sides are seriously recruiting strong teams. Gone are the days of only recruiting players at the end of their careers. Would be very interesting if the old tours were still in place and test teams played these Euro sides at full strength
JD, we loved you and we wish you everything of the best! Thanks for many good memories…
I think he will do well over there. He might need a fresh start to find himself again. That guy he used to be was a menace on the field, hope he gets that back.