Tuesday 12 June 2018 11:33, UK
Leinster have signed Australia international Joe Tomane from Top 14 runners-up Montpellier.
The 28-year-old, who had a stint in rugby league and won the last of his 17 caps in the Wallabies' win over Uruguay at the 2015 World Cup, provides a versatile backline option for Leinster following the retirement of captain Isa Nacewa.
"Leinster is one of the premier rugby clubs in the world with a rich culture and I will do everything I can to uphold the standards that the past and present players have laid out," said Tomane.
"I am excited to share my knowledge and experience with the upcoming talents while looking forward to learning and growing as much as possible myself.
"I hope to have a positive impact on the Leinster community and I can't wait to meet all the supporters and share many special moments with you all."
Tomane spent three years in the NRL with Melbourne Storm and Gold Coast Titans before returning to the 15-man code in 2011 with the Brumbies.
He scored 25 tries in 68 Super Rugby appearances before joining Montpellier in 2016, and came off the bench in last month's Top 14 final defeat to Castres.
"Joe has played in a number of different environments in Australia and most recently in France," said Leinster head coach Leo Cullen.
"I think he is a player that will add considerably to the group and is a player that everyone who supports the team will be excited about.
"I hope that we will all learn from some of the experiences that Joe has had in both codes of rugby.
"He has played with some great players and played under some great coaches too so he will add greatly in terms of continuing to develop Leinster's young players.
"One of the main factors in signing Joe has been the enthusiasm he has shown in looking to join the club.
"We look forward to welcoming Joe to Leinster in a few weeks' time."
