Veteran number eight Duane Vermeulen has signed for Irish provincial side Ulster on a two-year deal until 2023.
Vermeulen replaces fellow South African back-row Marcell Coetzee who was officially released by the club at the end of April.
The 35year-old, who has been capped 54 times by his country, has previously played in Europe featuring in the French Top 14 league for Toulon.
Ulster head coach Dan McFarland described Vermeulen as a world class player who will bring depth and experience to the position.
“As well as being an undeniable talent on the pitch, I know Duane will play an important role going forward in strengthening the winning mindset we are building as a squad,” McFarland told Ulster’s media team.
Vermeulen said he and the club had held “detailed discussions” about the club’s values, expectations and the potential role was going to play going forward.
“It appealed and resonated with me to a point where I got very excited and decided to commit myself to this Ulster journey. I cannot wait to become part of the Ulster family and to serve as best I can.”
Vermeulen, who was voted the Player of the Match during the 2019 Rugby World Cup final, is currently on duty with the Springboks at the Rugby Championship in Australia.
Vermeulen will join the United Rugby Championship in November after completing his international duties during the Autumn Tests.
That feeling when you sign for Ulster 😄#DuaneVermeulen pic.twitter.com/h4L8gChCKR
— Ulster Rugby (@UlsterRugby) September 16, 2021
(Story compiled with assistance from wire reports)
