Ulster sign Lewis Stevenson

Lewis will finish the current season with Harlequins before linking up with the Ulster squad in the summer. Stevenson, who has represented Ireland at Schools, U-19 and U-21 level, was previously on the books at Ulster before joining Exeter Chiefs. His impressive form over a number of seasons culminated in him gaining selection for the National One League Team of the Season in 2009. This form alerted Harlequins who signed him that summer and he went on to make 29 appearances for the London outfit.

The 6' 7" second row will be a welcome addition to the squad, bringing even more competition to an engine room that already includes Johann Muller, Dan Tuohy and Tim Barker.

"I'm very excited to be joining Ulster. When I left the province it was always my intention to come back with a bit of experience under my belt. It's a great time for Ulster Rugby at the moment and it's brilliant to be able to come on board. It's going to be an exciting new challenge for me and I'm delighted."

Stevenson joins as a replacement for Ryan Caldwell who has been released a year early from his contract to link up with Bath in the summer.