Two southern hemisphere newboys on their way to Leinster

Obviously not ones to rest on their laurels, Leinster have added to their already strong squad with two signings from the southern hemisphere ahead of the new season.

Late last month, we brought you news of the impending arrival of (the mighty) Quinn Roux, a monster of a second row forward who arrives from the Stormers in South Africa. 21 years young, he’s 6’5”, weighs nearly 19 stone and will help fill the huge void left by the departing Brad Thorn at the heart of the Blues pack once his Super 15 commitments with the Stormers are over for this season.

Joining Roux in Dublin next season will be 29-year old utility back Andrew Goodman, who joins from New Zealand provincial side, the Tasman Makos. A well-travelled man, Goodman has lined out for Super 15 side the Crusaders in the past as well as the brilliantly named Japanese side, Honda Heat Rugby.

Goodman will join on a one-year deal, although Leinster will be able to take up the option of a further year if they wish. As well as securing the signings of Roux and Goodman, Leinster have also announced that injury-plagued Irish international Luke Fitzgerald has signed on with the province for another year, putting to bed rumours that he might be about to head abroad. It’s all coming up Leinster at the moment.

Commenting on the new arrivals, Leinster coach Joe Schmidt said: "We are pleased to secure the signing of Quinn and Andrew who will bolster our second row and out-half/midfield options respectively.

"Quinn is a physically imposing forward with a burgeoning reputation in South Africa and he will add further competitiveness to the second row alongside Leo Cullen, Damian Browne, Devin Toner and Mark Flanagan as well as our other recent signing Tom Denton.

"Andrew is a quality player and has been a consistent place-kicker for a number of years.

"Both players are determined to make a positive impression over the forthcoming season and we are very pleased to have secured their services.

"We are also delighted that Luke has committed to the province for another year. Luke is an outstanding talent and he has played a major role in Leinster's recent success.''