The Melbourne Rebels have continued their recent signing spree, adding experienced Irish prop Jamie Hagan to their Super Rugby squad.
This week, the Rebels added depth to their forward pack with flanker Adam Thomson and lock Culum Retallick joining from Queensland and the Blues respectively.
Tighthead prop Hagan has penned a two-year deal until the end of the 2017 season and is a ready replacement for Paul Alo-Emile, who has left to play in France.
Hagan, 28, made over 100 appearances for Leinster, Connacht and London Irish, as well as one Test cap against the United States in 2013.
He becomes the second Irish international to sign for a Super Rugby team after fellow Irish front-rower Peter Clohessy spent the 1997 season with the Queensland Reds.
Rebels coach Tony McGahan said that Hagan would bring experience to the squad, having seen him in action first-hand while working in Ireland himself.
"To be able to bring a front row player into the team with 100 caps at the professional level is a real positive for the improvement of the squad going forward into the 2016 season," McGahan said.
"Jamie's playing experience in European rugby, where the set piece is crucial, will bring a varied approach to the Rebels' forward play and likewise he will find a different challenge for himself in Super Rugby."
Hagan said he was looking forward to testing himself in the Super competition.
"Growing up in Ireland, I have always watched Super Rugby on a Saturday morning and it has always fascinated me," he said.
"Now, after eight years playing professionally in Ireland and England, I have an amazing opportunity to move to Melbourne and play both with and against people of such a high calibre."
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