The Western Force's battered lock stocks have received a much-needed reinforcement with the signing of former Wallaby Sam Carter until the end of the Super Rugby Pacific season.
Carter, who stands at 201cm tall, joins the Force from English Premiership Rugby club Leicester Tigers.
The 34 year old previously earned 122 Super caps for the ACT Brumbies between 2011 and 2019, before a stint in Ireland with Ulster (2019-2023).
Carter's arrival comes at a perfect time for the Force, given that captain and fellow lock Jeremy Williams injured his calf in last week's 40-31 win over the Queensland Reds.
Star Wallabies lock Izack Rodda, who injured his quad on the eve of the season, is still several weeks away from a comeback.
And Felix Kalapu isn't expected to return until the second half of the season after undergoing hamstring surgery before the campaign started.
Carter arrived in Perth last week, and is set to fly to Fiji ahead of the Force's clash with the Drua on Saturday.
"Sam’s quality is known as an ex-Wallabies lock and he’s ready to go, having been playing over at Leicester in England," Force coach Simon Cron said.
"One of the areas we’ve been thin during the pre-season and into this season is the availability of tight-five forwards, and Sam helps allay that.
"He gives us a genuine lock option, with Izack Rodda and Felix Kalapu still not available for training or games.
"Sam also brings with him a wealth of experience, big-game mentality and genuine height.
"Plus he has been playing already in-season with Leicester, so he’s fit and available. He’ll be great around the team with his experience."
Carter followed in his father David's footsteps in representing Australia at Test level, and he was part of the Wallabies’ squad at the 2015 World Cup.
"My family and I are looking forward to the opportunity to come home to Australia," the 16-cap Wallaby said.
"I think I bring a lot of experience and rugby knowledge and I’m keen to add to what the Force are building.
"It’s an exciting young squad with a lot of potential and it’s great to be back in the Australian rugby environment."
Williams limped off against the Reds after just 27 minutes.
The first-year Force skipper also missed the season opener due to concussion, and hopes his calf injury isn't too serious.
"It's quite frustrating. You'd love to be out there every time the team plays," Williams said.
"But there's not much you can do, you've just got to work on your body to get on the field."
