NEWS ROUND-UP:ULSTER COACH Brian McLaughlin was unable to confirm yesterday when a work permit will be secured for Stefan Terblanche from the UK Border Agency but John Afoa was due to leave New Zealand last night for Belfast.
The World Cup-winning All Black prop is expected to play some part in Saturday’s match against Connacht at Ravenhill.
“We are struggling a little bit (with Terblanche’s work permit) but hopefully we can sort that out and get him over here soon enough,” said McLaughlin.
“We are very hopeful that he will be on the plane tonight and be here within 40 hours. It’s a big ask but, again, we are hopeful we can use him in some shape or form this weekend.”
The 36-year-old Terblanche was capped 37 times but it was his first outing for the Springboks back in 1998 that will be remembered from an Irish perspective as he galloped clear for four tries.
A remarkably durable career followed but he was due to retire after last week’s Currie Cup final.
Johann Muller, the current Ulster captain and a former team-mate at the Natal Sharks, believes the three-month contract, to cover for injured Kiwi Jared Payne, will not be regretted.
“Yes, he is 36 years old but I can tell you now he will be the fittest player in our group,” said Muller. “He is a phenomenal rugby player – the most professional guy I have seen in my life.”
Since returning to South Africa from the Ospreys over four years ago, Terblanche has played in 101 of the Sharks 104 matches.
McLaughlin also spoke of the huge boost expected by the return of Rory Best and Stephen Ferris to the Ulster line-up this weekend ahead of the arrival of ASM Clermont Auvergne to Belfast on November 12th.
“Rory was one of the stand-out hookers at the World Cup; to have him come back into our squad this week is a huge boost.
“Add Stephen Ferris to that. Injury after injury and he has bounced back again. We were all delighted to see him show exactly what he is capable of in the World Cup. To have him back in the white jersey of Ulster is something we all can’t wait for. Just to get his physicality, his presence, it is something we have missed.”
