London Irish Confirm Departure of Australian Veteran to France - Ruck

London Irish Confirm Departure of Australian Veteran to France

London Irish have confirmed that Wallabies veteran Rob Simmons will leave the G-tech Community Stadium, at the end of the season. Simmons has over a century of caps for Australia, and has made 62 appearances so far for the Exiles.

Rob Simmons of London Irish during the Gallagher Premiership match between London Irish and Sale Sharks at The Gtech Community Stadium, London on 12 March 2023 (Photo: Danny Loo/PPAUK)

The 33-year-old joined Irish in 2020, after completing his move to the Northern Hemisphere from the New South Wales Waratahs. Simmons quickly settled into Premiership life, and adapted well after spending his entire career in Super Rugby.

The second row has lined up a move to France, and is set to join Clermont Auvergne in the Top 14.

“Although I have loved every second of my time here, this opportunity was one that myself and my family could not pass up,” said Simmons.

Rob Simmons of London Irish during the Gallagher Premiership match between London Irish and Leicester Tigers at The Gtech Community Stadium, London on 25 February 2023 (Photo: Danny Loo/PPAUK)

“London Irish has been a fantastic home for us over the past three years and I will forever be grateful for the chance to represent the Club.

“It goes without saying, but I will give my best efforts for the rest of the season and try to leave Irish in the best place possible. I have met so many fantastic people and will miss this special Club.”

London Irish Director of Rugby Declan Kidney wished Simmons all the best on his move.

Rob Simmons of London Irish is tackled during the Gallagher Premiership match between London Irish and Harlequins at The Gtech Community Stadium, London on 29 January 2023 (Photo: Danny Loo/PPAUK)

“We wish Rob and his family all the best in his new adventure and thank him for his efforts in the London Irish jersey,” said Declan Kidney, Director of Rugby.

“Rob has played a big role in the development of our other second rows and we look forward to seeing their progression in the near future.”