Big signing.

Former All Blacks scrumhalf Alby Mathewson is set to return to Ireland next season – but not with Munster.

The talented New Zealander left the southern province back in December after a hugely successful spell in Limerick but Ulster have now announced that he will be heading up north next season.

The move is said to be as a result of John Cooney’s promotion within the Irish ranks, with the 29-year-old featuring off the bench for all three of Ireland’s Six Nations fixtures and in line to overtake Conor Murray for the Italy game.

Ireland have a summer tour of Australia this year, as well as three fixtures in November against South Africa, Japan and Australia again, leaving Ulster short in the halfback department.

Mathewson was praised for not only his performances on the pitch for Munster during his spell but his incredible influence off it and should come as an excellent signing for Ulster, despite the fact that he’s now 34.

“We are delighted that a player of Alby’s quality is set to join the squad,” Head Coach Dan McFarland said

“His leadership skills and extensive experience will be a valuable addition to our squad – especially for our younger scrum-halves as they progress in their development journeys in the months ahead.

“We look forward to giving him a warm welcome as he makes Ulster his new team.”