"Second Exile Signing Today" Harlequins Confirm Arrival of Chandler Cunningham-South from London Irish - Ruck
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“Second Exile Signing Today” Harlequins Confirm Arrival of Chandler Cunningham-South from London Irish

22 June 2023
Tom Sansom

Harlequins have confirmed the signing of former London Irish back-rower Chandler Cunningham-South. The versatile forward joins his old Exiles teammate Lovejoy Chawatama at the Stoop, becoming the second former London Irish star to agree a deal with Quins today.

Chandler Cunningham-South of London Irish during the Gallagher Premiership match between London Irish and Exeter Chiefs at The Gtech Community Stadium, London on 6 May 2023 (Photo: Danny Loo/PPAUK)

Cunningham-South is well equipped to play across both flanks and at number eight, making him a valuable asset for Harlequins. It is great to see that the promising young player will continue in the Premiership, after the 20-year-old’s future was uncertain after the financial collapse of London Irish.

The 20-year-old, who grew up in New Zealand playing for North Harbour, Canterbury and Lincoln University, joined the London Irish Academy last year, before making his Premiership debut against Bath Rugby in May 2022.

Last season Cunningham-South made 19 Premiership appearances, proving a handful in attack and defence, with 73 carries, 91 tackles and three tries. He also played a key role for the Exiles in their Champions Cup campaign, playing all four pool matches against Montpellier and DHL Stormers.

Chandler Cunningham-South 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)

Cunningham-South has gained international recognition, as he was called up for the England U20s squad. He has featured in the 2022 and 2023 U20s Six Nations, and is in the squad for the U20 World Championships.

Speaking ahead to the Harlequins website, Cunningham-South said: “I’m excited to be starting a new opportunity at Harlequins and extremely grateful for the chance to join the Club. I want to thank everyone at London Irish for the special memories and support. I loved my time playing for Irish and want to thank the supporters for the encouragement and thank my coaches and teammates for believing in me and helping me grow as a player and person.”

Try celebrations for Chandler Cunningham-South 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)

Director of Rugby Billy Millard added: “It’s pleasing to welcome Chandler to Quins and provide him with an opportunity to continue his career in the Premiership. I know how much the London Irish supporters loved watching him play last season, he’s an excitement machine with plenty of power and versatility. We’re excited for his continued development in Quins colours.”