De Klerk joined the English club at the start of the 2017-18 Premiership season after being dropped by former Bok coach Allister Coetzee.

The 27-year-old has played a total of 34 matches for Sale, scoring 146 points, including five tries.

De Klerk’s excellent club form saw him recalled to the Bok setup in 2018. He started 10 Tests and earned a nomination for the World Rugby Player of the Year award.

‘It’s humbling to know a club wants to extend your contract, even though you still have more than a year left on your current one!’ said De Klerk in a statement.

‘I would not have re-signed if I did not enjoy it here in the North West and really do believe in what we are trying to achieve here at Sale. I want to thank Dimes [director of rugby Steve Diamond] and the owners for giving me this opportunity and I can’t wait to see what the future holds.’

Diamond added: ‘I am delighted that Faf has agreed to extend his contract with us. The Sale Sharks have had some fantastic players throughout the professional era, there are too many to mention, but Faf is one of a few truly world-class players who have been at the club. His ability, attitude and enthusiasm are second to none and are a testament to professional he is.’

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