Leinster sign Maori prop

Leinster have signed New Zealand Maori prop Clint Newlands on a short-term deal until February.

Newland, 30, has featured for Hawke’s Bay 94 times in the NPC (since his debut in 1999) and in 24 games for the Highlanders in the Super 14/15 since 2008.

Leinster Forwards Coach Jono Gibbes said: “We’re pleased to sign Clint and he will add experience to the group in place of the injured Stan Wright who, in recent seasons, has been the scrum leader in the Leinster pack.”

Newland is immediately available for selection after arriving in Ireland on Tuesday. The Leinster team will be announced on Friday lunchtime.