Lions star makes Sharks move

English Premiership outfit Sale Sharks have completed the acquisition of a key member in the Lions backline from next season.

Director of rugby Alex Sanderson has bolstered Sale’s midfield with the signing of Marius Louw on a two-year deal, with the seasoned midfielder set to arrive in Manchester at the end of the 2024-25 campaign.

The 29-year-old has spent his entire career in the Republic, first with the Sharks before joining the Lions in 2022.

𝙁𝙍𝙊𝙉𝙏 𝘼𝙉𝘿 𝘾𝙀𝙉𝙏𝙍𝙀

Marius Louw will be joining us ahead of the 25/26 season 🔥

Welcome to the Sharks Family Louw 🤝#SharksAreCircling🦈

— Sale Sharks 🦈 (@SaleSharksRugby) March 14, 2025

A powerful ball-carrier and defensive organiser, Louw made his name in Durban after switching from flank to inside centre, playing over 50 matches for the Sharks. His leadership qualities quickly emerged at the Lions, where the skipper became a crucial figure in a youthful backline.

“It’s a big move, but I believe if you go in with the right mindset, you’ll make it work,” he told the club’s website. “It feels like everything aligned perfectly.”

With Sale’s emphasis on physicality and defensive intensity, Louw is confident he’ll fit in.

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“I know their style. They’re strong in defence, get off the line quickly, and have a big pack,” he added. “I believe I’m entering my best years, and this is the perfect opportunity.”

Sale has become a familiar home for South African talent, with the Du Preez brothers (Rob, Jean-Luc and Dan), Ernst van Rhyn, and Le Roux Roets among those currently at the club.

“I’ve played with most of the South Africans there,” Louw said. “They’ve settled well, and that made the decision easier.”

𝙏𝙝𝙚 𝙇𝙊𝙐𝙒 𝙙𝙤𝙬𝙣…

Big hits and hard lines, Marius Louw we’ll see you up North soon 🤝#SharksAreCircling🦈 pic.twitter.com/5zkZiQ8I1x

— Sale Sharks 🦈 (@SaleSharksRugby) March 14, 2025

Photo: Seyms Brugger/Gallo Images