Trokkie.

Ulster Rugby have announced the signing of Northampton Saints number eight, Juarno Augustus, who will join the province on a three-year deal next summer.

The 26-year-old South African has been an integral part of the Northampton first team since joining in 2021, winning the Gallagher Premiership title last season and impressing in the Investec Champions Cup with his explosive performances.

Standing 6’2 and weighing 118kg, and affectionately known as ‘Trokkie’ (small truck), Augustus has built up a reputation as a strong ball-carrying threat during his time at Northampton, and before that at DHL Stormers and Western Province.

Augustus had a stand-out junior international career, highlighted when he was named 2017 World Rugby Junior Player of the Year, having finished top try scorer at that year’s World Rugby Under 20 Championship.

On signing with Ulster, Augustus said

“I’m very excited to sign for such a historic club in Ulster Rugby. From my conversations, I believe in the project and can see the potential.

“It’s exciting to be a part of that and I look forward to meeting my new coaches and teammates in Belfast next summer. I have heard about the proud history of the province with South African players, so I will hopefully feel right at home.

“I’ve heard a lot about the amazing atmosphere in Belfast and can’t wait to meet all the Ulster fans soon!”