Exiles in Kiwi coup
London Irish scored a major coup when they secured the signature of the highly-rated Blues and Auckland flyhalf Chris Noakes on a two-year deal.
The 28-year-old has a very astute rugby brain and is a strong character both on and off the field.
Noakes made his breakthrough with Otago in the NPC back in 2007, where he went on to make 26 appearances – scoring 120 points.
He has also represented Bay of Plenty 16 times in the New Zealand domestic competition.
The Highlanders signed the flyhalf up for the 2012 Super Rugby campaign, where he put his considerable skills on display.
In 12 starts for the Highlanders he registered 86 points, before securing a move to Auckland to join the Blues.
In his two years in Auckland Noakes has emerged as a key member of John Kirwan's squad.
Brian Smith is thrilled to have the New Zealander on board for next season.
The Exiles' Director of Rugby said: "Chris is a very accomplished flyhalf.
"He's a prolific goal-kicker with a 75 percent average in Super Rugby and he knows how to get a backline moving.
"He is also eligible to play for England and we feel he is very well suited to the European game."
