Nick Williams on the charge for Aironi © Getty Images

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Players/Officials: Nick Williams

Tournaments/Tours: RaboDirect PRO12

Teams: Aironi | Ireland | Italy | Ulster

Ulster have completed the signing of back-row Nick Williams on a two-year deal.

The former Blues No.8 was turning out for Aironi in the RaboDirect PRO12 last year but after the club was disbanded, Ulster moved quickly to sign up their man. He has played under Ulster's new boss Mark Anscombe at North Harbour and also has experience in Ireland after turning out for Munster back in the 2008-09 season.

Ulster's director of rugby David Humphreys is looking forward to working with Williams and said: "Nick was a standout player during his time at Aironi and he will add a great deal to our squad. His addition means there will be real depth right across the back row and this is vital, given that Stephen Ferris is under an IRFU Player Management Programme.

"Mark Anscombe brought him out of club rugby in New Zealand and believes he can make a huge impact here at Ulster. He is an excellent ball carrier and is a very physical in defence."