WERNER Swanepoel checked into Sixways yesterday insisting that his Springbok exile could yet benefit Worcester Rugby Club.

The South African scrum-half, who made the switch from Leopards to Worcester this summer, believes that with the pressure to impress selectors lifted from his shoulders he will play with a new found freedom.

Swanepoel played his last Test for South Africa back in 2000 against Australia and, by signing a two-year deal at Worcester, has put his Springbok career on the back-burner for the time being.

After winning 20 caps, however, he feels he has little to prove as he embarks on a new career at Sixways.

"For four or five years I have been in the Springbok set-up," he said. "Even if you are on the bench, there is pressure on you to perform.

"But I am determined to enjoy my rugby at Worcester. In South Africa whenever I've stepped on a field to play I've always had it in the back of my mind that I have to perform because you want to make the Springbok side.

"That's off now. I can't play for England, I cannot play for anyone at international level at present. Basically, though, I can do my best and enjoy my rugby without worrying about that extra pressure.

"It's very intense in South Africa and something which you are constantly thinking about because you are a professional rugby player and your aim is always to play for the Springboks."

Swanepoel arrived in England last week and enjoyed a trip to Wimbledon to cheer on fellow South African Wayne Ferreira before his defeat to Tim Henman. And the 29-year-old has been delighted with his first full week of his Worcester experience.

"Everyone is talking about the great place Worcester is," added Swanepoel. "Everyone wants to go to the Premiership. It's always easier, if a game is tight, that you have a passionate home crowd and my message to the supporters is that we are really going to give it our all next season."

Meanwhile, departing Sixways fav-ourite Dave Sims yesterday signed a two-year deal with Worcester's promotion rivals Exeter Chiefs.

The former England lock will join up with fellow Worcester old boy Tony Yapp who also made the switch to the County Ground this summer.

"I'm looking forward to the challenge," said Sims. "I get on well with the coach Ian Bremner and Tony being there is a real bonus. I'm certainly looking forward to returning to Worcester!"