Cape Town - Former Kings centre Shane Gates is among seven players announced as additions to the Sunwolves' 2019 Super Rugby squad.
Port Elizabeth-born Gates, 26, played for the Kings between 2011 and 2016, but subsequently has been plying his trade with the NTT Communications Shining Arcs in Japan.
In 2017 it was reported that Gates was eyeing a Test career with Japan once he qualifies to represent the Cherry Blossoms.
Gates joins four other South African-born players in Tony Brown's Sunwolves squad in 2019, namely, utility forward Grant Hatting, flank Lappies Labuschagne, prop Hencus van Wyk and wing Gerhard van den Heever.
In 2018 the Sunwolves finished bottom of both the Australian Conference and the overall Super Rugby log, winning just three of their 16 matches - against the Reds, Stormers and Bulls.
The Sunwolves will open their Super Rugby campaign at home against the Sharks in Singapore on Saturday, February 16.
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