SOUTH African lock forward Roderick Labuschagne is the Cornish Pirates' latest signing.

The 29-year-old 6ft 6ins, 18st 2lb forward will join from successful Italian 'Super 10' side Benetton Treviso.

Described as being an aggressive performer on the field, he is a big hitter who works hard in the loose and is very effective at rucks.

Born in Durban, he played for Natal Sharks U21s and Natal Wildebeest in South Africa's Vodacom Cup competition, before in 2003 having a season playing in New Zealand's NPC for the Bay of Plenty 'Steamers'.

In 2004, he moved to France, playing first for Perigueux in the French Pro D2 and then for Grenoble. After two years at Grenoble, Roderick moved to Benetton Treviso.

He is the third new lock forward to sign for the Pirates following Cornishmen Mike Myerscough (Cornish All Blacks) and Luke Collins (Redruth) had signed for the club. Looking forward to his arrival in Cornwall, he said: "My father and uncles played for Natal, but my mother is British, having emigrated to South Africa when she was in her early twenties.

"She was really thrilled that I signed with the Pirates as Cornwall was always her favourite holiday destination when she was growing up. Also, from what I've heard it's a great rugby county where the supporters really get behind their team.

"Having been fortunate to play in foreign countries and meet some great friends that I'll keep for life, I look forward to doing the same in Cornwall – besides giving nothing less than 100% each time I put on the Pirates jersey."