Mumm to return to the Tahs

The Waratahs confirmed that Wallaby lock Dean Mumm will return to the franchise after three years with English Premiership side the Exeter Chiefs.

Mumm, who earned 95 caps with New South Wales (including 83 Super Rugby caps) during his time with the Waratahs – from 2004-2012 – has signed a one-year contract and will return to play in the 2016 Super Rugby season.

Waratahs Rugby CEO Greg Harris said he was extremely pleased to secure the signature of Mumm.

"We're absolutely delighted that Dean will be coming back to the Waratahs," Harris said.

"To have a player of his experience and reputation will be a great asset for the team," he added.

"Dean has had a very successful career, both previously at the Waratahs and during his stint with the Exeter Chiefs, and we're very fortunate to be able to have someone with his playing experience and leadership skills back at the franchise.

"It is also an important reversal of the current trend of Australian players going overseas to pursue their careers."   

During his recent stint overseas Mumm played 48 matches for the Exeter Chiefs, starting in each one, and was named captain of the side at the beginning of the 2013/2014 season.

New Zealand-born Mumm made his debut for the Waratahs in 2004 on their tour of Argentina, taking on local side Salta, and made his Super Rugby debut against the Lions in Johannesburg in 2007.

A versatile player in the pack, Mumm can play in either the second or back row and during his 95 match career with the Sydney-based outfit, Mumm firmly established himself as a regular starter for the Waratahs.

Mumm was a highly regarded member of the team, playing a key leadership role during his time at the franchise.

Mumm has 33 international Test caps with the Wallabies, debuting in 2008 against Ireland during the June Test series in that year.