Venter has been a star performer for the South African franchise and is knows for his explosive pace and game management. He has represented the South African Barbarians and has been capped by South Africa Sevens.
The 32-year-old insists he will be an asset to Allen Clarke’s side and will help develop the likes of Harri Morgan and Matthew Aubrey.
“The most important thing is that any player that comes in benefits the team and hopefully I will do that,” said Venter.
“I’m very excited to work with some of the young scrum-halves at the Ospreys because I’ve heard they’ve got some awesome talent. I’m very keen to impart my wisdom and knowledge on to them. Hopefully I can bring a lot of qualities to the Ospreys team.
“I’m a guy that wants to learn and I think I can improve my game by playing with the international players they Ospreys have in their ranks. I’m an exciting player who likes to challenge defences with my running game while I like the physical side of the game as well.”
Venter’s signing had been delayed by gaining international clearance but the Ospreys are delighted to finally be able to welcome him to Llandarcy. “Having completed the deal in July, it’s been an extremely frustrating wait for both Shaun and the club,” Ospreys general manager Dan Griffiths said.
“He has, however, been a quality performer in both Pro14 and Super Rugby and we are delighted to finally add him to the squad. With Aled Davies away on international duty [with Wales at the World Cup], Shaun brings experience and leadership in a key position.
“Not only will he to add to team performance, but also support the development of the exciting young talent we have at scrum-half.” Head Coach, Allen Clarke, echoed Griffiths sentiment, highlighting that Venter’s signing couldn’t come soon enough:
“Shaun is a player I’ve admired for sometime and I’m delighted he, Anje his wife, son Douw & daughter Tana have finally arrived in Swansea,” said Clarke.
“He’s a tremendous professional, highly respected in the game and a player who adds quality and experience to our half-back stocks. He will also have a significant role to play in the development of our younger half-backs, Harri Morgan, Rueben Morgan-Williams and Matthew Aubrey.
“Shaun’s arrival is another major addition for the Ospreys and shows, again, how ambitious we are to re-establish ourselves as one of the top sides in Europe. I’m confident he’ll have a big impact in that journey.”
