London Irish have announced the signing of experienced forward Sam Twomey ahead of the 2018/19 season.
Twomey’s arrival represents something of a homecoming for the 26-year-old second-rower because while he has spent his professional playing career to date at Harlequins, Twomey grew up as a London Irish supporter, holding a season ticket at the Madejski Stadium for six years.
✍| NEW SIGNING: And a word from our new addition @SJTwomey
More to come from the big man on LITV shortly! #WelcomeHome
🎟 Be part of it with a 2018/19 Season Ticket, available from https://t.co/fGKtRK5zpA or 0118 968 1016. pic.twitter.com/Wsknwjjppa
— London Irish (@LiRFC) July 18, 2018
As well as wearing Quins’ quarters over 50 times in all competitions, Twomey played for England Under-20 for two seasons, including an appearance in the 2011 World Rugby Under-20 Championship final.
“I’m delighted to have joined London Irish, a club that I supported as a boy,” said Twomey.
“I’m really looking forward to the challenge of playing for this ambitious club and I can’t wait to get stuck in.”
Really excited to join @LiRFC, a fresh challenge and a huge year ahead #COYI https://t.co/liZX2hNSvl
— Sam Twomey (@SJTwomey) July 18, 2018
“We’re bringing in a very good player,” said London Irish director of rugby Declan Kidney.
“Sam has plenty of experience in the Premiership and at international age group level, and at his age he has a lot of good years ahead of him.
“We believe he will strengthen our squad for a competition which always asks a lot of players.”