Robbie Henshaw excited about linking up with Bundee Aki

Ireland's Robbie Henshaw says fellow centre Bundee Aki has brought "real value" to the camp ahead of Saturday's clash with South Africa.

The New Zealand-born Aki has completed a three-year residency qualification and will make his Ireland debut alongside Henshaw in the midfield against the Springboks.

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Leinster man Henshaw used to team up with Aki for Connacht and is excited about the prospect of rekindling their partnership.

"It is great to be linking up with him again," said Henshaw. "It has been a couple of seasons now but he is a class player and I enjoy playing off him and feeding off him.

"He has added real value to our group, and the boys have enjoyed his company here."

The 27-year-old Aki won a Super Rugby title during his time with Chiefs and Henshaw says he will bring a new dimension to the Ireland squad.

"Really looking forward to having him on the pitch and letting him express himself against the South Africans," said Henshaw.

"He has that experience in the past, playing in Super Rugby, and he will bring a real energy to our group."