RUAN PIENAAR, the Sharks and Springboks scrumhalf, could be on the verge of signing for Ulster for season, writes GERRY THORNLEY.

Ulster had been linked with Scottish scrumhalf Mike Blair after losing Isaac Boss to Leinster next season, but, that having fallen through, they are believed to be close to signing Pienaar. If they can close the deal, it would be quite a coup.

The son of former Springbok fullback Gysie Pienaar, the 26-year-old has played scrumhalf, outhalf and fullback for his country.

Primarily the back-up to Fourie du Preez, he became the first-choice outhalf on their November 2008 tour to Europe. He retained the position for the first two Tests against the Lions before losing his place to Morne Steyn.