The Waratahs have announced the signing of Pumas lock Le Roux Roets on a one-year deal. 

The 23-year-old will spend the Super Rugby season in Sydney after impressing in the Currie Cup last year.

In his short representative career, Roets had already rubbed shoulders with All Blacks star Dan Carter and Springbok flyhalf Johan Goosen when he was recruited by Racing 92 for the 2016-17 academy season.

Waratahs coach Daryl Gibson says Roets brings size and skill to his pack.

‘We first noticed his talent in the Currie Cup and we have been searching for a big, aggressive and physical player who can get us going forward and excels in the set piece,’ Gibson said.

‘At 135kg, Le Roux fits the profile that we have been wanting to add to our squad. His recruitment will add real competition and depth among our current lock options in Rob Simmons, Tom Staniforth, Ryan McCauley and Jed Holloway.’

Roets says he is buoyed by the opportunity to play for the 2018 Super Rugby semi-finalists.

‘My goal was to be selected for a Super Rugby team, and to have the chance to play for the Waratahs is amazing. This is a team that has won a championship title [in 2014] and in watching them play in 2018, I cannot wait to be part of them doing even better this year.’