Australia international Sekope Kepu to join London Irish next season

Australia international Sekope Kepu will make his debut in the English Premiership after he was signed by London Irish.

Kepu will join the Irish next season from New South Wales Waratahs after being part of the Super Rugby side since 2008 making over 130 appearances for them.

The 33-year-old started his professional rugby career with Counties Manukau in 2005 and also had a brief stint with French club Bordeaux during the 2015/16 season.

“I’m excited at the opportunity to join London Irish as they return back to the Premiership next season," he told the official website of the club.

"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.”

Kepu is also the most-capped prop for Australia in the history of the game featuring in 103 Tests since his debut in 2008. He has also represented the Wallabies in the 2011 and 2015 editions of the World Cups.

“We look forward to welcoming Sekope Kepu to London Irish in the New Year after he fulfils his ARU commitments” said Declan Kidney, director of rugby.

“He will bring valuable experience to our front-row and having proved himself at the highest level, we are excited to have him join us here at Hazelwood.”