Duane Vermeulen: Ulster sign Springbok World Cup-winning forward

Ulster have signed South African World Cup-winning back-row forward Duane Vermeulen, who will join the club following the autumn Tests in November.

Vermeulen, 35, has signed a deal to play for the Irish province until 2023.

In 2019, Vermeulen was named player of the match as South Africa stormed their way to World Cup victory, lifting the Webb Ellis Trophy by beating England.

"On the park, he'll definitely deliver without a doubt," said his compatriot and ex-Ulster captain Johann Muller.

Speaking to BBC Sport Northern Ireland, Muller added: "Getting another World Cup winner into that Ulster set-up, the player that he is, the leader that he is, the experience that he brings to Ulster….it's a phenomenal signing.

"He's 35 but I'll tell you what, his body is still in great nick. I honestly believe he can play for the next two or three years without any concerns.

"He's a tough character. He's going to bring a lot to the coaching staff. He's going to challenge everybody to be better and to bring the best out of everybody."

This article originally appeared on BBC Sport

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