Glasgow Warriors sign Namibian lock

Tjiuee Uanivi in action for Namibia at last year's Rugby World Cup

The 6ft 7in 25-year-old will, subject to a visa and medical, arrive from South African Super Rugby franchise the Sharks, who signed him in January following some impressive showings for his country at last year’s World Cup.

Uanivi, who has also played for Southern Kings in South Africa and Brive in France, has 14 caps for Namibia and told glasgowwarriors.org: “I’m very pleased to have this opportunity to play with Glasgow Warriors next season.

“It’s a club with a rich history, who play exciting rugby and have had lots of recent success, and I will do all I can to help that continue.

“The new artificial pitch at Scotstoun will really suit my style of play and I can’t wait to get started with the players and coaches.

“I’d like to thank The Sharks, and Gary Gold in particular, for allowing me the chance to pursue this exciting opportunity and I wish them well in Super Rugby.”

Uanivi can also cover all three back-row positions and Glasgow head coach Gregor Townsend added: “We’re looking forward to Tjiuee joining us next month, ahead of the new season.

“We believe he’ll fit in well in our environment and challenge for a starting place in our forward pack.

“He has excellent athleticism and put in a number of impressive performances for Namibia at last year’s Rugby World Cup.

“We believe Tjiuee’s strengths suit the high tempo rugby we aspire to play, but he will have to work hard every day to win a starting place up against the other second rows at the club.

“We now have a really good balance within our second-row group for next season and it will be exciting to see them build partnerships and continue to improve.”