Ferreira joins the Hurricanes

Experienced South African lock Andries Ferreira has joined the Hurricanes squad for the remainder of the Investec Super Rugby season.

The 28-year-old arrived in Wellington on Saturday and joined the squad on Sunday for his first training run.

Ferreira replaces Sam Lousi who has suffered a season ending pectoral muscle injury which required surgery.

He comes to the Hurricanes having played for the Cheetahs and Lions in Super Rugby while he also had a brief stint in the French Top 14 with Toulon as injury cover.

Hurricanes head coach John Plumtree said he was delighted Ferreira had taken up the invitation to join the squad.

"I've got a lot of respect for the way Andries plays and approaches the game and we believe he is going to be a great asset to the squad," he said.

"We have been really happy with the work of our young guys in the first three games and we think Andries will bring some real experience and help develop the guys around him.

"It's really bad luck for Sam who is a really important member of our squad and we are grateful he is still around to contribute off the field."

Plumtree confirmed Ferreira would be available for selection for Friday night's match against the Highlanders at Westpac Stadium.