Ulster sign Botha

Ulster have completed the signing of Sprinbok prop BJ Botha on a three-year contract.

World Cup winner Botha passed a medical on Thursday to cross the hemispheres into Europe.

"I feel that the move to Ulster will be a great opportunity for both me and my family," said Botha.

"I'm really looking forward to playing in Europe. The move is a great opportunity to see Ireland and the United Kingdom.

"But I want to experience the famous Northern Ireland culture first hand and I'm sure we'll end up venturing across to mainland Europe for holidays which we are all excited about.

Botha is Ulster coach Matt Williams' sixth non-Irish signing, alongside Fijiian Timoci Nagusa, South African Robbie Diack, Australians Clint Schifcofske and Ed O'Donoghue and Scot Rob Dewey.

"BJ is a world class player and is one of the best tight-head props in the game," issued Williams.

"He was part of the South African squad that won the World Cup and is used to being part of a winning team. BJ will bring with him the culture of excellence and winning, a mindset I hope he can pass onto our younger players."