Saints sign Bok legend

Widely regarded as one of the greatest locks to have played the game, the 38-year-old is South Africa's most capped player, having worn the famous green and gold 123 times – heading into this World Cup – his fourth.

Matfield was a key force in South Africas' World Cup winning campaign of 2007.

He was named Man of the Match in the 15-6 final win over England – and he is also a double Rugby Championship winner.

Success has been equally frequent at provincial level and in Super Rugby, where Matfield has been a Bulls stalwart for the best part of 15 years.

He has lifted the Super Rugby title three times as captain with the Bulls – adding the same number of Currie Cups to his personal medal haul.

Saints Director of Rugby Jim Mallinder says that Matfield will bring a wealth of experience to the club.

"Victor is one of the outstanding forwards in the world,” he commented.

"He has been at the top of the game for well over a decade now, and his selection by South Africa for a fourth consecutive World Cup shows that he remains a force to be reckoned with.

"We're looking forward to Victor joining up with the squad – and believe he has a lot to offer the club, not only on the field, but also off it in terms of his leadership qualities and experience.”

Matfield – who also spent time in the Top 14 with Toulon – is looking forward to a new challenge.

"It is an honour for me to join the Northampton Saints,” he said.

"Seven years ago the Saints very nearly became my  home and I feel privileged to be given another opportunity to join the club.

"I join the Saints to make the best contribution I possibly can, and I have a genuine desire to hopefully play an instrumental role in a team effort, with the aim of lifting silverware in both the Premiership and the Champions Cup.

"For now I will focus only on the Springboks' campaign to win the World Cup, but I am very excited about the journey with Saints from November onwards,” added Matfield

Matfield will link up with the Saints squad once his World Cup commitments with South Africa have concluded.