Edinburgh captain Coman to join London Irish next season

Edinburgh captain Mike Coman will join London Irish next season on a three-year-deal.

The New Zealand backrower joined Edinburgh in 2013 from the Hurricanes and was named captain following his predecessor Greig Laidlaw's departure for Gloucester before the 2014-15 season.

Last season - the now 28-year-old's first as captain - he lead them to the European Challenge Cup final, when they were beaten by Gloucester.

Irish's head of rugby operations Glenn Delaney said: "The addition of Mike to our squad for next season is a huge coup for London Irish.

"He is a proven leader and will bring plenty of physicality to our pack."

Irish currently sit at the bottom of the Aviva Premiership table having collected just eight points from 10 games this season, and host an important clash against 10th-placed Worcester next weekend.

Coman said: " Having spoken to (Irish head coach) Tom Coventry, who I know well from New Zealand, and seeing where he wants to take the club, I was happy to sign.

"Everything looks to be in place off the field to ensure the side are successful on it, and I look forward to being part of a squad working hard to achieve that."

Edinburgh head coach Alan Solomons declared Coman would be "sorely missed by all" at the Scottish club.

Solomons added: "His contribution both on and off the field has been immense. He is an outstanding leader, a terrific bloke and a really good rugby player.

"Mike is one of the finest men I have met and it has been a pleasure and a privilege to coach and work with him."