Exeter sign South African prop Mona from Sharks

Khwezi Mona has made one start in the last two seasons for Sharks

Exeter Chiefs have signed South African prop Khwezi Mona from United Rugby Championship side Sharks.

The 32-year-old has played more than 50 times for the Durban-based side - but missed last season through injury.

Exeter have not disclosed the length of Mona's move, which will see him play in England for the first time.

Mona is able to play on both sides of the front row and adds depth after Exeter saw Marcus Street move to Saracens, while Ehren Painter is missing with a long-term knee injury.

"Khwezi is an experienced player who has played a lot of high-quality rugby," Exeter director of rugby Rob Baxter told the club website.

"The opportunity to sign him probably only came about because he's just recovered from an injury.

"We're rounding off the very end stages of his recovery for that so that he is confidently fit to play and able to go flat out when we need him.

"He's already fully integrated with our squad at Sandy Park and is on-message with everything that we are trying to do. Now, it's just about us getting him on peak performance levels before we unleash him fully with the squad."

Mona added: "This is the kind of team and environment I want to be a part of. I'm excited to learn from the coaches, contribute on and off the field, and test myself in such a competitive league.

"I've heard about the incredible Sandy Park atmosphere and can't wait to give the passionate fans something to cheer about. My focus now is to work hard, settle in quickly, and give my all for the badge."