Italy's Quintin Geldenhuys has signed for the new Parma-based Zebre franchise for the 2012/13 season.
The South African-born lock, who won 30 caps for Italy since 2009 has joined Head Coach Christian Gajan's squad in Parma for the summer training camp.
"Quintin is a greatly experienced player and a serious professional," Director of Rugby Roberto Manghi said. "He will be very important for our pack and our team in general. Over the pasat seasons, Geldenhuys was on the international stage and we're really happy he has committed to the Zebre project for the coming season."
"Zebre are working to line up a competitive team, an interesting mix of experienced guys and emerging young players," Geldenhuys said. " I'll do my best to bring my experience and what I've learnt in the last two seasons playing RaboDirect PRO12 and Heineken Cup rugby for Aironi."
Zebre will feature in Pool 3 of the next season's Heineken Cup with Biarritz, Harlequins and Connacht Rugby.