Rugby

Ulster sign John Cooney and Arno Botha for next season

Both will come in to Les Kiss’ squad on two-year contracts after European exit

Connacht’s John Cooney breaks free to score his sides second try during their Champions Cup win over Zebre. Photo: James Crombie/Inpho

Mon Jan 16 2017 - 13:09

John Cooney and Arno Botha have signed two-year contracts with Ulster, with Cooney coming from Connacht and Botha from Super Rugby side the Blue Bulls.

Cooney started his career with Leinster, making his competitive debut in September 2011 in an away fixture versus Ospreys. He then made his European bow later that season when Leinster beat Ulster in the 2012 Heineken Cup Final.

The 26-year-old made 27 appearances for the RDS club before moving to Connacht for the 2014-15 season, where he has amassed 30 caps.

Meanwhile Botha, who can operate either as a flanker or number eight, has made 46 Super Rugby appearances for the Bulls. He is currently vice-captain for the franchise, where he has spent his entire professional career.

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The 25-year-old captained South Africa U20s in the 2011 World Championships in Italy and was also named as their Player of the Year after a string of impressive performances.

He made his debut for the Springboks against Italy in June 2013, but suffered a knee injury just four minutes into his second test, against Scotland, later that month.

“I’m delighted to be joining Ulster. My mum lived in Belfast for a few years and she really enjoyed the city so that made my decision a lot easier,” Cooney said.

"Les Kiss was a big factor is my move too as he's so well-respected and I believe I can develop my game under his coaching. I spoke with him at length a few times about his hopes for Ulster Rugby and it sounds like an exciting time to be involved in the set-up.

“I loved my time in Galway and it re-energised my career, but I felt it was the right time for a fresh challenge. I have aspirations to play international rugby but first and foremost my focus will be on earning the starting scrumhalf position at Ulster.”

Kiss himself said: “Having searched domestically and abroad for the best available Irish-qualified scrumhalf, John was undoubtedly our number 1 target and we’re delighted that he’ll come on board from this summer. Bryn (Cunningham) has been on the ball throughout this process and has been working quietly in the background to ensure the deal was completed successfully.

“John has had a couple of unfortunate niggles which have restricted his game-time, but what really impressed me is his attitude and competitive approach in coming here to Ulster and wanting to earn a starting jersey on a weekly basis. He is a driven person who wants to develop his game and he certainly has the attributes to do so. I know from speaking with the Irish management team that they also rate him very highly and he has the potential to play international rugby.

“He is a great talent; threatening in attack, strong in defence, has a good kicking game and excellent game management skills. I think he will really suit the style of play that we will play next season, with a strong mobile pack and an exciting backline.

“Our pack will be strengthened by a couple of additions next season and they should help to provide the platform for our scrumhalves and outside backs to thrive.”

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