The 35-year-old has signed a two-year deal to play at Kingspan Stadium, replacing fellow Springbok Marcell Coetzee who joined the Bulls at the end of last season.

Vermeulen was Man of the Match in South Africa’s World Cup final win over England, and also spent three seasons with RC Toulon, making 19 Heineken Champions Cup appearances in the process.

He will join the Irish province in November after playing in the Rugby Championship for South Africa, and will be expected to make an impact when Ulster take on ASM Clermont Auvegrne and Northampton Saints in the Heineken Champions Cup.

Ulster director of rugby Dan McFarland said: “Duane is clearly a world class player who, as the current World Champions’ starting 8 and MVP from the last RWC Final, is set to bring depth and experience to our really talented group of back rowers.

“As well as being an undeniable talent on the pitch, I know Duane will play an important role going forward in strengthening the winning mindset we are building as a squad.

Vermeulen added: “Ulster and myself had detailed discussions about the club’s values, expectations and the potential role I can play going forward. It appealed and resonated with me to a point where I got very excited and decided to commit myself to this Ulster journey.

“I cannot wait to become part of the Ulster family and to serve as best I can.”

Ulster Rugby have added significant international pedigree to their back-row with the signing of World Cup winner Duane Vermeulen from fellow United Rugby Championship outfit Bulls.