Duane Vermeulen tests positive for Covid-19 ahead of Ulster stint

South Africa international Duane Vermeulen's stint with Ulster has been delayed after he was tested positive for Covid-19.

Vermeulen was signed by the Irish provincial club ahead of the 2021/22 season and was set to link with them following the November Tests with South Africa followed by the clash between Barbarians and Samoa last weekend which was called off due to Covid-19.

A statement released by Ulster revealed that the Springboks star was tested positive upon his arrival in Belfast and will undergo isolation in accordance with the government guidelines.

“There will be a delay in Duane Vermeulen joining-up with the Senior Men’s squad following his arrival in Belfast," read the statement.

"As a result of testing positive for COVID-19 prior to entering the professional squad bubble, Vermeulen will not train with the team this week.

"He will continue to be monitored medically and is currently well. The Public Health Agency has been contacted, and it is expected that he will integrate into the squad over the course of next week.”

Vermeulen, who was a key player in South Africa's World Cup triumph in 2019 has signed a contract until 2023 with Ulster and had represented Bulls, Kubota Spears, Toulon, Stormers and Cheetahs in the past.