LONDON IRISH have begun to bolster their squad as they prepare for Premiership rugby next season after winning promotion from the Championship.
The Exiles have already announced the signings of Australian prop Sekope Kepu, Irish fly-half Paddy Jackson, New Zealand winger Waisake Naholo and Australian lock forward Adam Coleman.
Kepu will bring a wealth of experience to the Irish forward line having made 103 international appearances for Australia.
“I’m excited at the opportunity to join London Irish as they return back to the Premiership next season. I was very impressed by the facilities at Hazelwood and the new stadium taking shape in West London, so as a player, it is an exciting time to be joining the club,” said Kepu.
Irish have also reinforced their back line with the addition of 26-year-old Paddy Jackson who joins from French side Perpignan.
“I’m delighted to be joining London Irish next season at such an exciting and pivotal time for everyone involved with the club. They have a clear vision for where they want to be and I look forward to being part of it,” said Jackson.
Irish will also be delighted to have added a World Cup winner to their ranks, with 28-year-old Naholo joining the squad for the 2019/20 season.
“London Irish is a team on the up and has an exciting future. There is plenty of ambition, a world-class training facility, a good group of coaches and players and some exciting signings coming in. The supporters have a great reputation as well and I’m looking forward to it” said Naholo.
Standing at 6″8 and weighing 122kg, Coleman will add power, height and experience to the Irish pack.
“I’m really looking forward to joining London Irish,” Coleman stated.
“It’s been clear talking to Declan and Les that they’ve got big ambitions for the club, and as well as a good squad already in place, they are making some exciting signings as well. The plans for moving back into London look really good as well, and it will be a privilege to be a part of that journey.”