Australian rugby league star Mark Gasnier has joined Stade Francais in a high-profile switch to union.
Test centre switches codes
New Stade Francais coach Ewen McKenzie has confirmed Australian Test centre Mark Gasnier has switched codes to join the French side on a two-year contract.
The NRL star, who has scored 77 tries in 134 games for St George Illawarra, is expected to be officially unveiled by his fellow Australian on Tuesday.
"I have a high opinion of him, I think he will make a great convert," said McKenzie, who coached high-profile league converts Lote Tuqiri, Wendell Sailor, Matt Rogers and Timana Tahu while in charge of the NSW Waratahs.
"Everyone says it's about the money, I don't actually believe it's the case. I actually think Mark's got a genuine interest.
"I'm not chasing guys here that don't want to play rugby. Mark Gasnier made it quite clear to me four years ago that he had a very strong interest in the game."
The 27-year-old played 15 times for Australia, scoring 11 tries, while representing New South Wales in nine State Of Origin clashes against Queensland.
