Force sign former Springbok Peter Grant

It’s taken them six years to get the deal done, but the Western Force have finally lured former Springboks flyhalf Peter Grant their way.

The Force have been on the lookout for a new marquee No.10 since parting ways with Sias Ebersohn, who has rejoined the Cheetahs.

Grant’s arrival on a two-season deal adds much-needed experience to the Force’s fledgling backline.

The 30-year-old notched 104 Super Rugby appearances with the Stormers, with his 866 points placing him seventh on the competition’s all-time scorers’ list.

The Force first tried to lure Grant their way at the end of 2009 to replace Matt Giteau.

Although they were unsuccessful then, the Force were able to snare Grant this time.

Grant said the fact his parents and two uncles lived in Perth was a major drawcard for him coming.

The five-Test playmaker, whose nickname is Bash, recently spent a season with French Top 14 club La Rochelle.

He also played four seasons with Japanese Top League club the Kobelco Steelers.

Grant joins Wallabies centre Ben Tapuai and Jono Lance as new signings at the Force.

“Our priority was adding experience to complement the talented young players in our backline,” Force coach Michael Foley said.

“Peter’s played a key position for nine seasons of Super Rugby, as well as a number of seasons in Japan and France.

“When you combine that with his time spent with the Springboks, it equates to a player that not only has a wealth of experience in playing the game, but also has the ability to lead players around him.

“Most importantly, he brings calmness in decision making, an eagerness to take the defence on when we attack and a consistency in goalkicking.”

The Force finished last on the Super table in 2015 after managing just three wins from 16 games.

Grant knows he’ll take on a big responsibility at the Force, both on and off the field.

“I feel like I have a lot to offer to the younger players, especially playing a mentoring role,” Grant said.

“Giving them a little bit of advice here and there, which is similar to what players did for me in my career.”

Stay up to date with the latest sports news
Follow our social accounts to get exclusive content and all the latest sporting news!