Big prop Hiroshi Yamashita has played 49 tests for Japan and is keen to test himself in Super Rugby.

Japan international Hiroshi Yamashita has joined the Chiefs and is a decent chance of claiming a Super Rugby contract.

The Chiefs have lost rising star Nepo Laulala for the season after he tore three ligaments in his right knee - the ACL, PCL and MCL - in training last month. Laulala moved from the Crusaders after playing four tests for the All Blacks last year.

Chiefs coach Dave Rennie said on Wednesday he was still deciding on a replacement, with a local player and an overseas player being weighed up as options.

Yamashita looks to be that overseas option, joining the Chiefs next week as part of the franchise's relationship with Japanese club the Kobe Kobelco Steelers.

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That partnership was formed in 2014 and has seen the two clubs operate exchanges and provide one another with opportunities.

Due to Laulala's injury, Yamashita will jet in earlier than the other arriving Steelers players, with Rennie keen to have a look at the tighthead specialist in training, ahead of trial matches against the Waratahs in Rotorua next Friday and against the Blues in Pukekohe on February 19.

The 30-year-old Yamashita was part of Japan's exciting World Cup campaign last year, where the Brave Blossoms won three out of four pool games, including the stunning upset of South Africa.

Yamashita, who is 1.83m and weighs 120kg, has played 49 tests since his debut in 2009, will have a familiar face at the Chiefs in Japan captain Michael Leitch.

"Because this is a new challenge for me, I will give my all, my very best, and show what I'm capable of," Yamashita told the Japan Times.