Pietersen, who scored a hat-trick of tries against Samoa during the Rugby World Cup, will link up with the highly successful club at the conclusion of the Super Rugby.

He is currently playing club rugby in Japan for the Japanese Top League side, the Panasonic Wild Knights, and will join the English Premiership side ahead of the 2016-17 season.

Former Springbok captain, Jean de Villiers, who retired from international rugby after breaking his jaw against Samoa, signed with the side late last year, however, is yet to make his debut for Leicester.

Pietersen confirmed that 2016 will be the final season he runs out in the black-and-white jersey of the Sharks.

“I'm really looking forward to joining up with a quality team like Leicester Tigers and competing for silverware in the Premiership and European Champions Cup.

“I have spent the majority of my career in South Africa and the past few years in Japan. I feel that it's a perfect time to experience something new.

“I hope to contribute to the team on and off the field in any way I can.

“I'm looking forward to joining the Tigers after my final Super Rugby season with the Sharks.”

Last week it was revealed that Springbok loose forward, Schalk Burger, will be playing for Saracens at the end of the Super Rugby while Francois Louw recommitted to Bath for another three years.

Veteran Springbok lock, Victor Matfield, is busy wrapping up his playing career at the Northampton Saints.

Pietersen will be in action for the Wild Knights again this weekend in the Top League semi-final against Allistair Coetzee’s Kobe Kobelco Steelers.

Morgan Piek/OFM News

Photo: JP Pietersen - Stu Foster