Munster nab Springbok forward

Munster and the IRFU have confirmed the one-year signing of South Africa back rower Arno Botha.

The 26-year-old, currently with London Irish, will join the province at the beginning of the 2018/19 season, subject to medical clearance and obtaining a work permit.

Botha, an explosive ball carrier who plays flank and No.8, played his entire professional career with the Blue Bulls before moving to London in January.

A former South Africa Under-20s captain, he featured for the Springboks on two occasions in 2013.

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Commenting on the signing, Munster head coach Johann van Graan said: "In building our squad for next season I believe Arno will be a great addition to our side, adding further depth and strength to our back row options.

"From my time with the Bulls and South Africa I have first-hand experience of what Arno is capable of. A physical ball carrier and lineout jumper, he leads by example with his work-rate, commitment and physicality, and we look forward to welcoming him to the province."

Botha played for the Bulls 47 times at Super Rugby level between 2012 and 2017. He made his debut for the Springboks in June 2013 and in his second test left the field after just four minutes of play having ruptured ligaments in his left knee.

Botha will join former Bulls teammate and fellow South Africa U20 representative CJ Stander in the Munster back row.

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