Edinburgh sign Jaco van der Walt

Edinburgh Rugby have signed South African playmaker Jaco van der Walt.

The 23-year-old former Lions star will join the squad before they set-off for Bloemfontein and will be available for selection immediately having signed a two-and-a-half-year deal.

A highly regarded youth prospect, van der Walt progressed through the Golden Lions academy, representing the Ellis Park outfit at every possible age-grade.

The playmaker was subsequently selected in the South African Schools squad following impressive form for the Johannesburg-based side.

Van der Walt made his first-team debut for the Golden Lions during the opening match of the 2014 season and has since gone on to make 33 appearances for the 2015 Currie Cup winners, scoring 147 points in the process.

Van der Walt made his Super Rugby debut for the Lions in 2015. He has made 22 appearances for the Ellis Park outfit and played a major role in helping the side reach this year’s Super Rugby final.

Edinburgh Head Coach, Richard Cockerill, said: “Jaco is a skilful young player who is equally adept at stand-off or fullback. He’s an excellent goal kicker and will provide cover in key areas for us.