SIXWAYS newcomer Shaun Ruwers is convinced he can be a big asset to Worcester Warriors under the guidance of Mike Ruddock.

The South African-born tighthead, Ruddock's first signing since taking over from John Brain as director of rugby, believes the former Wales Grand Slam-winning coach can mould his career.

The 6ft 3ins, 19-stone front-rower said: "Mike Ruddock is a really down-to-earth guy and I can't wait to start working with him.

"I'm still very young and learning the game but I'm sure he can point me in the right direction and give me lots of tips to help me out and develop. If he does that I'm sure I will be an asset to the club.

"Unfortunately, I don't know any of the players here yet. When I was very young I was in the Natal Sharks Under 19 and Under 21 set-ups when Thinus Delport was there, so I have bumped into him and will look forward to playing alongside him.

"I just need to get a bit of fitness going and get really fired up for the season.

"I'm really looking forward to playing with some quality players around me and hopefully that will up my game and show my real potential."

Ruwers, who moved to Sixways from National One strugglers Waterloo, had already caught the eye of scouts from several Premiership clubs before Worcester swooped.

He added: "It was a good learning experience for me at Waterloo. I moved down there when we were still in National Two and winning promotion to National One was a great season for me.

"This year I came back to Waterloo with ambitions and unfortunately it wasn't such a great year for them.

"But for me personally it has been good and I have come to people's attentions.

"When I moved to this country I was unsure about rugby and what I could achieve.

"Waterloo's coach Vaughan Stanley got hold of me when he saw me in a game and said, Don't be silly, you have got real potential and we want you to help us out'.

"I went to Waterloo and after that I have got a few offers from some Premiership clubs that I was really excited about."

However, watching the Warriors' dramatic final-day showdown with Saracens that secured their place in next season's top flight appealed to Ruwers.

He said: "I actually watched some of the Saracens game and it was pretty breathless stuff. We also had a game that day but all the boys were watching the TV when they could because so much was up for grabs.

"The atmosphere that day looked amazing and I can't wait to sample that for myself."