Cape Town - Sharks lock Ross Skeate will join French club Agen ahead of the new European season for his second stint in France, according to the Rugby365 website.

Skeate, who started his top flight career with Western Province, also enjoyed a spell with Toulon in the French Top 14 from 2008 to 2010.

Skeate, 29, has spent two injury-plagued years at the Sharks, with a neck operation earlier this year limiting his participation in the Super Rugby competition.

However, after undergoing rehab he is nearing a return to action.

"I'm going to see a specialist and hopefully should get clearance to be ready to play in a week or so," said Skeate.

He admitted he is disappointed not to be finishing the Super Rugby season with the Durban-based franchise but wished the team well.

"It's disappointing to be leaving before the end, because when I signed my two-year contract with the Sharks, Super Rugby was supposed to be over by the end of June.

"It's a pity not to be involved in the last few matches and hopefully the guys get into the playoffs as well."