Andre Esterhuizen extends Sharks contract until 2030

The Sharks have confirmed that Springbok centre Andre Esterhuizen will remain with the Durban-based franchise until June 2030.

Esterhuizen, who has won 27 caps for South Africa, is currently part of the Springbok squad preparing for the four-Test Greatest Rivalry series. The opening match is scheduled to take place in Johannesburg on 22 August.

The Sharks announced the extension on social media on Thursday afternoon, describing the experienced centre as a key figure who will continue to play for the club.

“Andre the Giant will continue to rumble forward for the black-and-white,” the Sharks said.

“The Sharks Rugby Club is pleased to announce that Andre Esterhuizen will remain our player until June 2030.”

The new agreement represents a long-term commitment between the player and the franchise, which is based in Durban. Esterhuizen is in his second spell with the Sharks after returning to the club from Harlequins in 2024.

His current involvement with the Springboks comes as South Africa prepare to begin the Greatest Rivalry series on home soil. Esterhuizen is among the players selected for the four-Test campaign, which starts in Johannesburg on 22 August.

The 27-cap international has established himself as an important option in the Springbok midfield while continuing his club career with the Sharks. His latest contract means he is due to remain with the franchise until the end of June 2030.

Esterhuizen first represented the Sharks before moving to Harlequins. His return to the Durban side in 2024 began his second period with the club, and Thursday’s announcement confirms that relationship will continue for several more seasons.

The Sharks used the phrase “Andre the Giant” in their announcement, reflecting the centre’s physical presence and his role in carrying the ball for the team. The franchise also referred to its traditional “black-and-white” colours as it confirmed the extension.

For now, Esterhuizen’s immediate focus is with South Africa, who will open the Greatest Rivalry series in Johannesburg. His future at club level, however, has now been settled, with the Sharks confirming that he will remain their player until June 2030.