Harlequins have confirmed that Mike Brown, who is believed to have signed with Newcastle Falcons, will leave the club at the end of the season.
A product of the Harlequins Academy and an ever-present name in the starting XV for the larger part of his two decades in the Quarters, the 35-year-old departs Quins as one of the most decorated players in the Club’s history.
Brown debuted for the Club in 2005 in the Greene King IPA Championship against Doncaster Knights, a day in which he also claimed his first try for Quins.
The fullback played a crucial role in the Club’s trophy-winning 2011/12 Premiership and 2010/11 European Challenge Cup seasons, going on to also enjoy a 72-cap international career with England.
Commenting, Brown said: “I want to take this opportunity to thank the people that have made my time during Quins a special part of my life. Firstly, to the fans that have supported me so fiercely. I, and the team, have missed you hugely over the last few months and I hope I get the opportunity to play in front of you at The Stoop once again.
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“I also want to thank the special people who gave me my chance as a young player. Hopefully, I’ve repaid that faith during my time in the Quarters to date and for the rest of this season.
“I’ve been fortunate enough to play alongside some great players, in some great teams, but more importantly I have met many great people during my time with Harlequins.”
Mike Brown selects his England XV for 2023 World Cup
BACK-THREE:
- 15. Tom de Glanville (Bath RFC)
- 14. Anthony Watson (England)
- 13. Jack Nowell (Exeter Chiefs)
BROWN SAID: “De Glanville has all the skills. Get him in now to see if he can make the step up.”
RUCK’S PICKS: 15. Josh Hodge (Exeter Chiefs), 14. Joe Cokanasiga (Bath RFC), 11. Ollie Thorley (Gloucester)
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CENTRES:
- 13. Henry Slade (Exeter Chiefs)
- 12. Owen Farrell (Saracens)
BROWN SAID: “Slade has got the natural ability that we associate with All Blacks. Farrell showed against Wales what he can do as second receiver, bringing outside backs into the game and off-loading when taking the line on himself.”
RUCK’S PICKS: 13. Joe Marchant (Harlequins), 12. Owen Farrell (Saracens)