The Melbourne Rebels have found their replacement for departed co-captain Scott Higginbotham, with former All Black Adam Thomson signing on for the 2016 Super Rugby season.
A blindside flanker or No.8, Thomson was a member of the New Zealand squad which won the 2011 World Cup and played 29 Tests before heading offshore.
Like Higginbotham, Thomson is a big ball-running forward with a knack for scoring tries, having bagged 21 in 83 Super Rugby games.
He made his name in Super Rugby with the Highlanders and played consistently in a struggling Queensland Reds team last season.
"Adam will bring a great deal of experience, ability and dynamism to our squad," said Rebels coach Tony McGahan.
"He has proven himself to be one of the top loose forwards in the southern hemisphere over a sustained period."
Higginbotham was a key figure in his two years with the Rebels, before taking up an offer to play club rugby in Japan at the conclusion of the 2015 World Cup.
The 32-year Thomson said he was looking forward to joining a young team on the rise.
"At this stage of my career, I wanted to continue to play Rugby at a high level and it was important to be in an environment that best fits my needs, that I feel can get the best out of me and where I believe I can contribute the most," he said.
"Having played against the Rebels for a number of years, I've seen some real development - the style they play and the direction the club's heading is exciting.
"I think my game will fit well with the Rebels and allow me to play some quality football."
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