Ulster formalise Botha signing

Ulster formally announced the signing of the Sharks' Springbok prop BJ Botha on Thursday, on a three-year contract.

Ulster formally announced the signing of the Sharks' Springbok prop BJ Botha on Thursday, on a three-year contract.

The move was all but tied up weeks ago, but Botha still had to go through the formalities in Ireland, including a medical which he passed with flying colours on Tuesday.

Botha, who was a part of South Africa's World Cup-winning squad but has been overlooked so far by new coach Peter de Villiers, was said by new Ulster coach Matt Williams to be the final piece of the jigsaw.

“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.

“Meeting new people and seeing new places is always exciting and I can't wait to join the rest of the squad and get stuck into some serious training for the new season.

“However, the person I'm most excited about meeting is my new son who is due in November. My wife and myself are very excited about the impending new addition to our family.”

Botha – the BJ stands for Brendon James – is Williams' sixth non-Irish signing, with Timoci Nagusa, Robbie Diack, Clint Schifcofske, Ed O'Donoghue and Rob Dewey the others.

“BJ is a world class player and is one of the best tight-head props in the game,” enthused 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.”