Ulster's new import BJ Botha arrived in Belfast on Sunday and could be included in Friday's Magners League opener against the Scarlets.

It would be the ideal start for the 17-times capped Springbok to be play in front of the Ravenhill crowd.

Botha was in Ulster three weeks ago to sign a new three-year contract with before flying back to Durban.

The 28-year-old Durban born prop was a member of South Africa's World Cup-winning squad last year.

Botha's wife is expecting their first child later this year and it was thought prudent that they came to Ulster now in case they could not fly due to the advancing pregnancy.

The hard-rugged tight-head is just the man that coach Matt Williams was searching for to beef up his scrum.

"BJ is a world class player and is one of the best tight-head props in the game," enthused Williams.

"He was part of the South African squad that won the World Cup and is used to being part of a winning team," said Williams who will announce his squad on Tuesday.

"BJ will bring with him, the culture of excellence and winning, a mindset I hope he can pass onto our younger players."

I can't wait to join the rest of the squad and get stuck into some serious training for the new season BJ Botha

Botha himself said he cannot wait to start his new life in Belfast.

"I feel that the move to Ulster will be a great opportunity for both me and my family," said Botha. "I'm really looking forward to playing in Europe.

"It's great to be involved in with such a vivid following as Ulster," he said. "The move is a great opportunity to see Ireland and the United Kingdom.

"But I want to experience the famous Northern Ireland culture first hand and I'm sure we'll end up venturing across to mainland Europe for holidays which we are all excited about."

BJ (Brendon James) was involved with the Natal Sharks Currie Cup campaign recently is very excited about facing a new culture.

"Meeting new people and seeing new places is always exciting and I can't wait to join the rest of the squad and get stuck into some serious training for the new season.

"However, the person I'm most excited about meeting is my new son who is due in November. My wife and myself are very excited about the impending new addition to our family."

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