Exiles add some beef

London Irish have added some vital beef and versatility to their forward pack by signing Ospreys loose forward Tom Smith on a two year deal.

Smith, who was born in Bristol, has made 60 appearances for the Welsh region scoring two tries and will bring plenty of physicality to the Irish back row as well as his experience of playing regularly in the Pro12 and the Heineken Cup.

The 26-year-old has captained Wales at Under-21 level as well as the Ospreys when called upon. This will see him bring leadership qualities along with his rugby ability when he joins the club.

London Irish head coach Toby Booth said: “Tom’s ability to play at both blindside flanker and No.8 means he will add further to our back row options. He is a top class defender that possesses very good set piece attributes.”

Smith commented: “I have thoroughly enjoyed my time at Ospreys but feel it is time to move on and I am keen to do this at London Irish. There are a few Welsh lads in the current London Irish squad who have gone on to be extremely successful in recent seasons and I hope to follow suit when I join this summer.”