London Irish secure signing of scrum-half Ben White

London Irish have announced the signing of scrum-half Ben White ahead of the 2021/22 season.

The 23-year-old became the youngest player to make debut for Leicester Tigers at the age of 17 years and 151 days in September 2016 when he came off the bench against Harlequins. He made nine appearances for Leicester last season and has played over 50 times for them in the previous two campaigns.

“I’m really excited to be here," he told the club's official website.

“I feel this is just the kind of fresh challenge I need at this stage of my career.

“There’s a really talented group here and I can’t wait to get going with the boys in pre-season.”

London Irish director of rugby Declan Kidney is excited to have White in the squad for the next season.

“We are delighted to welcome Ben to the Club," he told.

“He’s a really promising scrum-half, with great experience despite his age.

“We want to develop a group of young scrum halves under the mentorship of Nick Phipps to bring the Club forward.

"Ben knows a good few of the boys already from their time together with England U20's. We’re excited about getting to work with him in pre-season.”

London Irish finished the 2020/21 season of the Gallagher Premiership at ninth place after managing just six wins from 22 games.