CONNACHT HAVE FURTHER boosted the credentials of their back-line with the addition of 23-year-old Danie Poolman on a three-year-deal.
The 100 kilo back will provide Eric Elwood with an option on the wing or as an outside centre and brings with him some high-grade Super XV experience.
With the Stormers he has been a regular feature in a side which includes Springboks; Jean De Villiers, Gio Aplon and Bryan Habana.
In Connacht, however, the departure of Henry Fa’afili will ensure the South African has much more responsibility on his shoulders even accounting for the contribution of inbound Dan Parks.
Connacht are embarking on their second season competing in the Heineken Cup, after a good finish to the RaboDirect Pro12 season, they will be focused on adding to their tally of one win in Europe’s premier competition.
“He’s a strong ball-carrier with an excellent work rate both in attack and defence and I am really looking forward to working with him.” said Elwood of he latest addition to his squad after Nathan White, Jason Harris-Wright, Willie Faloon, Parks and Brian Murphy.
“It will be a truly international experience,” said Poolman, “I think of Ireland as a long term goal, and I am confident I can add value to the squad for next season’s league and Heineken Cup campaign.
“I am grateful and want to thank Western Province for all that I have learned and achieved, but this is really an once-in-a-lifetime opportunity…to be able to experience life and rugby in beautiful Ireland!”
