Harlequins sign Richard de Carpentier on short-term deal

Harlequins have confirmed the signing of former England Sevens star Richard de Carpentier on a short-term deal.

Having enjoyed a successful trial period with the club, the 30-year-old will join the Quins on a three-month contract ahead of their Heineken Champions Cup opener against Munster.

“I’m delighted to sign for Harlequins. To have the opportunity to come into such a great club has been fantastic, I’ve been made to feel really welcome by the entire squad and staff," he told the official website of the club.

“I’m excited to bring the strengths of my sevens game into fifteens and get stuck in over the next few months.”

The 6ft 4in flanker started his professional contract with Leicester Tigers but went on to make his debut for England Sevens during the 2011 World Rugby Sevens Series. He went on to represent England Sevens in 43 tournaments and 200 matches and was named RPA England Sevens Player of the Year in 2017.

Harlequins head of rugby Paul Gustard expressed delight in securing the services of de Carpentier.

“It’s great to be able to welcome a player of Chippy’s pedigree into our squad over the next three months. He is a great athlete who is well known to us through watching him play in the world series and to Chaz (Mulchrone) who played with him at Worcester.

“He has impressed us with his attitude, positivity and contribution in training over the last three weeks and we are pleased to offer him an opportunity to transition back into the 15’s game.

“We’re excited to see what Richard can add to the squad on and off the field during his time at the Club. Welcome to Quins, Chippy, Annicka, and Rudy!”