The Rebels have signed Japanese international Kotaro Matsushima for this Super Rugby season.

The talented utility back follows in the footsteps of fellow Japanese players Shota Horie, Male Sau and Keita Inagaki, who have all previously played for the Rebels.

Matsushima will join the Rebels on a short-term contract at the end of February.

'I know that this challenge with the Rebels will help me grow and improve my rugby skills,' Matsushima said. 'I will do my best to participate and contribute to the team.'

Matsushima also has ties to South Africa, having attended the Sharks Academy and played in the Vodacom Cup in 2013.

Meanwhile, fellow Japanese World Cup star Hiroshi Yamashita has signed a deal to play for the Chiefs this season.

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