The Ospreys have moved to head off a second-row crisis at the Liberty by drafting in former England age-grade international Ben Glynn.
Glynn has been featuring for Harlequins, having joined them from Bristol in 2017.
The 6ft 6in, 19st forward should add ballast to the Ospreys pack at a time when they desperately need it, with lock resources particularly stretched.
They were already pushed for cover with Alun Wyn Jones, Adam Beard and Bradley Davies at the World Cup, and injuries to James King and Will Griffiths have made a difficult situation a whole lot worse.
Head coach Allen Clarke said: “It's great to secure a player of Ben’s calibre and experience so swiftly. He offers us an immediate option in a position of critical need.
“In the short time he has been with the squad he has fitted in brilliantly and shown the potential he possesses. Undoubtedly it’s been a whirlwind week for him, one which is going to become even more intense come Friday night but one he is really looking forward to."
Glynn will travel to Dublin for the game with Leinster this weekend, having been named on the bench.
He said: “I got a call on Monday evening, then came across for tin-hat Tuesday — full contact training. It’s been a bit of a whirlwind but I’m really enjoying it and they’re a good bunch of lads here. I can’t wait to get going.”
Ospreys rugby general manager Dan Griffiths said: “ Ben has played at a top level for a long period and offers us an excellent option with three key players away on international duty and two others picking up injuries last week.
“With that in mind, we’re looking forward to seeing Ben in action at Leinster and hope the fans will join us in welcoming him to the club.”
King had to leave the field with a serious-looking shoulder injury against Ulster in the opening round of Guinness PRO14 matches, while Griffiths picked up a bump in training.
The arrival of former England U18 Glynn follows the signing of Shaun Venter, who linked with the Ospreys earlier this week.
