Francois Hougaard: South Africa scrum-half three-years deal with Worcester Warriors

Francois Hougaard has won 35 caps for South Africa and will play for the Springboks' sevens side at this year's Olympics in Rio

South Africa international Francois Hougaard has signed on a more permanent basis with Worcester, having penned a new thee-year contract.

The 27-year-old scrum-half initially arrived at Sixways only on a short-term deal in February.

But he has helped Dean Ryan's Warriors win three times in four games.

"He has had a huge influence on the side in a short space of time. We hope he can be a catalyst for us moving forward," said Warriors boss Ryan.

Hougaard scored a try on his Worcester debut in their win over Sale, then produced a man-of-the-match performance in the 15-14 victory at Newcastle on 4 March - the club's first away success in the Premiership for two years.

"I haven't been here long but I've become really fond of Worcester," said Hougaard. "The club have great ambitions, which is something I'm really excited about being a part of.

"Now my aim is to help drive Warriors up the Premiership table and to achieve our long-term goal of becoming a top European side."

After going 13 games without a win in all competitions, Warriors' recent revival in the Premiership has eased their relegation fears and taken them 13 points clear of bottom club London Irish.