Opening batsman Loots Bosman has signed a three-year contract with the Dolphins.
The chief executive of the KwaZulu-Natal Cricket Union, Cassim Docrat, made the announcement on Tuesday, saying the 32-year-old former Eagles batsman would introduce some "much-needed urgency up front in the Dolphins' batting order, particularly in limited-overs cricket".
The hard-hitting opener has consistently delighted crowds in domestic limited-overs cricket, striking the first century in the Pro20 series when he smashed 104 in 41 balls for the Eagles against the Lions in 2004/5.
Bosman, who has played 12 One-Day Internationals and four T20s for South Africa, is recovering from a serious knee injury he suffered - ironically against his new team - in a Pro20 match on January 23 in Bloemfontein.
Bosman's first operation was not a success, but the second, in Cape Town in April, has set him to rights.
The Eagles' physiotherapist, Alda Myburgh, said she had been pleased with his progress over the past six weeks and was confident that he would be fit for pre-season practice with his new team mates.
Bosman said he "felt strong" and was delighted with the move.
"I wanted to go to Durban last season but it fell through," he said. "Now I'm happy that it has finally happened. I want to move because I feel that new team mates and a new cricketing environment will offer me the challenge that I need to further my career."
Bosman said he particularly enjoyed playing at Kingsmead - "where I've scored a lot of runs".
The punishing strokemaker was so keen to join the Dolphins that he ignored the chance of playing for the Eagles in this year's T20 international club championship in India.
Bosman's career needs a boost following his near-miss when he was included in the Proteas' squad for the first T20 World Championships in South Africa in 2008.
The Kimberley-born batsman was withdrawn from the squad shortly before the tournament because of injury but clashed with coach, Mickey Arthur, over the decision, claiming that he was fit.
"I spoke to Mickey when I played for South Africa against Bangladesh in 2008 and I'm glad to say we've put our differences behind us. I'd now like to establish myself with the Dolphins and also try to get back into international limited-overs cricket again."