Former Heineken Cup champions Leinster have announced that they have signed Wallabies and Waratahs lock Kane Douglas after his Australian Rugby Union contract expires later in the year.
The 24 year old, who made his Australian debut in 2012 against Argentina and has gone on to win 13 further caps since then, will join a roster that already includes Irish internationals Devin Toner and Mike McCarthy.
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Current Waratahs coach Michael Cheika led Leinster to Heineken Cup glory during his term between 2005 and 2010.
Douglas will join Leinster once his Australian Rugby Union contract expires later in the year.
“It’s a big decision but one which I am very excited about,” Douglas said on the Leinster site.
“I’ve had plenty of time to weigh lots of things up and the time is right for me and my partner to experience something new and something totally different. We are heading for a new challenge in life and that’s what excites us.”
While he is looking forward to joining up with the rest of the Leinster squad in the new season he also acknowledged that there is still rugby to be played at home.
“Leinster is a massive club in Europe with a proud tradition and I’m really looking forward to doing my bit to add to the team once my commitments are done here in Australia”
Coach Matt O’Connor welcomed the addition of the young lock, “We are delighted to be able to formally announce Kane’s signing.”
“For a young guy he already has a wealth of rugby knowledge and experience under his belt and we also feel that he has the right character to succeed at Leinster.”