Giant.

London Irish have been pretty busy ahead of their return to the Premiership. They’ve already signed the likes of Sean O’Brien, Waisake Naholo, Paddy Jackson, Sekope Kepu and Adam Coleman as they look to make their mark in the top tier next season.

And now they’ve made their biggest signing yet – literally. Second row forward Ruan Botha has agreed to join the Exiles initially on a six-month contract acting as Rugby World Cup cover, before moving to England permanently in time for pre-season in 2020.

The 27-year-old stands at over 6ft 9 inches and weighs 124kgs (19.5 stone). Declan Kidney, London Irish director of rugby, says he is excited at the prospect of adding Botha to the squad.

“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.”