Puma cover for Burden

 

There was much speculation as to who the French giants would bring in to cover for the former Sharks man with Cheetahs hooker Ryno Barnes and Samoan hooker Mahonri Schwalger possible options.

 

Burden suffered a chest muscle injury earlier this month, and will likely be out of action for four to five months. 

 

The Toulon hooker needs an operation to repair the damage and as such will miss a large part of the French season.

 

Cortese, who was an unused substitute for the Pumas in their 18-13 victory over France in Paris on Saturday, is no stranger to French rugby fans, having previously played for Biarritz, Bayonne and Colomiers.

 

The 29-year-old has also worn the colours of Northampton and Gloucester in England.