A vastly experienced player, Botha is an imposing figure, standing 6’ 6” tall and weighing in at close to 18st. He is well known for his prowess in the line out and for his power in the tight.
His journey to joining the Falcons began with three years at Bedford Blues, before going on to be an integral part of the Saracens pack from 2009 up until December 2014, when he returned to South Africa to join the Durban based Sharks.
In addition to his impressive club level career, Botha has also been capped 10 times for England, with the 33 year old an ever present during the 2012 RBS 6 Nations championship.
Regarded as one of the best second rows to have played in the Aviva Premiership, Botha adds further quality and experience to the plethora of talented players available to the Falcons.
Director of Rugby Dean Richards said: “I’m very pleased to have been able to secure Mouritz’s services; he is a proven talent at the highest levels of the game and will add another dimension to our second row options.”
“He has a vast array of experience in two of rugby’s best club competitions and we are looking forward to seeing him deliver the sort of performances that were his trademark during his time with Saracens.”
“With three other full internationals alongside him, we have a very deep talent pool to draw on this season at lock alongside some exciting young prospects who will only benefit from having Mouritz around.”
Botha, who arrives in the North East this weekend said: “I’m very excited to join the Falcons. Newcastle are in a position to make a real impact on the Premiership this year and I am looking to help them rise up the table and push for a place in Europe.”
“I want to contribute to the growing success of the club and I am also exited to learn from Dean while making the transition from player to coach eventually.”