Saracens pair given new deals

South African forwards Schalk Brits and Ernst Joubert have agreed new contracts with Saracens.

Both players have been highly influential figures at Vicarage Road since their arrival in July last year.

Brits, a dynamic ball-carrying hooker, was rewarded for his outstanding 2009-10 season by being named the Rugby Players' Association player of the year.

"This is a special place and I'm really enjoying life at the moment," said Brits.

"We're competitive on the field and we're a trusted group of friends off the field. Saracens are a genuine family club and I'm very happy to be part of that."

Joubert also enjoyed a strong debut campaign in English club rugby and was shortlisted for Premiership player of the year.

The number eight has led Saracens during the injury-enforced absence of Steve Borthwick, including in last season's 33-27 Premiership final defeat by Leicester.

"I can't think of anywhere else I'd rather be playing my rugby," said Joubert.

"There is such a special vibe in and around the squad. Everybody wants to be part of what I'm sure is going to be an exciting future."

The length of the new contracts have not been disclosed by Saracens.