Gloucester sign back-row forward Ruan Ackermann from the Lions

Gloucester have announced the signing of back-row forward Ruan Ackermann from Super Rugby finalists the Lions.

Ackermann will join his father Johan at Kingsholm for the new season, with Ackermann senior arriving in the West Country on Thursday to officially begin his role as head coach.

Both were heavily involved in the Johannesburg-based Lions' outstanding Super Rugby campaign - they were beaten by the Crusaders in last weekend's final.

Gloucester rugby director David Humphreys is delighted with another major playing signing following Ed Slater's recent arrival from Leicester.

"Anyone who has watched the Lions, Ruan has been one of their standout players," Humphreys said. "We are trying to build a pack that is really competitive and really physical. The attributes he brings to his game will be a huge addition and acquisition for the squad.

"We are pleased that we have been able to bring Ruan on board and he will definitely complement our existing resources in the back-row - an area where we have real strength in depth and competition for places.

"Johan, of course, knows all about the qualities that Ruan possesses, and Ruan himself knows exactly the high standards that Johan expects of his team and his players.

Ackermann recently represented South Africa A and was involved with the Barbarians last year, playing against Samoa in London.