Cheetahs and Springbok fullback Willie le Roux will join the Sharks in 2016.

The 25-year-old will play club rugby in Japan for three months after the 2015 World Cup, before joining the Durban-based franchise.

'Willie is an excellent acquisition for the Sharks,' said CEO John Smit. 'He is a game-breaker who has shown on numerous occasions his class and ability to turn defence into attack. He will certainly strengthen and add great value to our backline.

'We are delighted that he has accepted our offer to ply his trade in Durban and look forward to welcoming him to the Sharks family.'

Le Roux has recovered from his ankle injury and will be available for the Cheetahs' final two Vodacom Super Rugby matches against the Waratahs and Bulls.

Photo: Johan Pretorius/Gallo Images