Leinster confirmed the signing of Zane Kirchner during the week. But what can they expect from the South African?

The full-back who signed a two year deal with the province has been a mainstay of Pretoria-based Blue Bulls over the past six years, also earned 24 caps for his country during that time.

The versatile 28-year-old who can also play at outside centre and even on the wing if required is seen as a long-term replacement for Isa Nacewa in the back line although whether he can fill the New Zealand-born Fijian’s boots is in doubt.

Last season Kirchner notched six tries in 17 games in the Super 15 to put him just outside the Top 10 in the leading try scorers list and was part of Blues’ squads that were Super Rugby champions in 2009 and 2010, also winning the 2009 Currie Cup – South Africa’s premier domestic competition.

Kirchner was also in try-scoring form during 2012’s inaugural Rugby Championship as he notched tries for the Springboks against Argentina and Australia as he started every game in the tournament.

The No 15 is good under the high ball and is also a competent kicker from the hand, and although he is strong defensively he has been labelled as a “one-dimensional kick and chase full back” in some quarters in his home country, with his attacking vision called into question.

Yet Kirchner received the Super Rugby backline player of the year for 2012 and is capable of moments like this (from 2:19)… 

©INPHO/Lorraine O'Sullivan