RaboDirect PRO12

Edinburgh have added to their resources in the front-row with the signing of Western Force's James Hilterbrand.

Hilterbrand can cover both sides of the scrum as well as hooker and started against the British & Irish Lions for the Perth franchise. Hilterbrand is qualified to play for Scotland through his grandmother and Edinburgh coach Alan Solomons is delighted with his new recruit.

"James' versatility will be very useful for us, especially when you consider the attritional nature of the front-row and immense physicality they must endure over the course of the season," Solomons said. "His addition follows the recruitment of Wicus Blaauw last week and means we now have more depth and better competition for places in our front-row, with our young Scottish props learning from experienced campaigners."

Hilterbrand added: "I want to get a taste of Scottish rugby as soon as possible. I think this move is coming at the perfect time for me to learn from the best and keep progressing my footie. I hope to bring a different rugby perspective because of my different pathway into professional rugby. I'll definitely bring a lot of energy and heaps of passion."