LONDON IRISH have added another signing to their squad with the addition of second row forward Ruan Botha.
The Exiles have shown huge ambition ahead of their return to the top flight as Botha becomes the 10th new signing, joining: Allan Dell, Adam Coleman, Sean O’Brien, Nick Phipps, Sekope Kepu, Paddy Jackson, Curtis Rona, Waisake Naholo and Will Goodrick-Clakre for the clubs final season at the Madejski Stadium.
The 27-year-old will join the Exiles on a six-month contract as cover for the upcoming Rugby World Cup and after a sting with Japanese side Kubota Spears, he will rejoin Irish in June 2020.
The South African lock stands at 2.05m and weighs 124kgs, and has vast experience having made 64 appearances in Super Rugby, including captaining the Sharks.
“Ruan being available during the Rugby World Cup period is a major boost to us. He has a lot of top-class rugby experience and will also bring a lot more to the squad in terms of his leadership qualities,” said London Irish director of rugby, Declan Kidney.
“London Irish is entering an exciting period in its history and I am immensely proud to be joining at such an important time as they return to the Premiership, I look forward to meeting up with my teammates for pre-season,” said Botha.
