London Welsh confirm signing of Piri Weepu

Following reports earlier this week, London Welsh today confirmed the signing of New Zealand World Cup winning scrum-half Piri Weepu.
Capped 71 times by the All Blacks during an international career which started back in 2004, 30-year-old Weepu will join the Exiles at the end of the Super Rugby season with the Blues.
He said: “I’m hugely excited by the opportunity of joining London Welsh and at the challenge of playing in the Aviva Premiership – consistently one of the best leagues in world rugby.
“London Welsh is an iconic and globally recognised brand in the rugby world and I’m looking forward to linking up with head coach Justin Burnell and my new London Welsh teammates, and helping the Club re-establish itself in the top flight and in Oxford.”
Head coach Justin Burnell added: “It doesn’t get much better than being a World Cup winner with 71 caps for the All Blacks – it’s a signing that speaks for itself.
“It’s massive statement of intent from the Club in regard to its drive to be able to compete in the Aviva Premiership next season, and not just survive.
“It’s also going to be a fantastic opportunity for the younger players within our squad to mix and learn from a player of Piri’s experience and ability. As a player, his skill set is unbelievable; his kicking game and tactical appreciation are tremendous.
“After meeting with him in Singapore at the Club 10s, his personality and aura is such that it will be second nature for him to fit in to the environment we’ve created at London Welsh.
“It also goes to show just how worthwhile our participation in the Club 10s in Singapore was, with the signings of both Piri and Lachlan McCaffrey.
“A big thanks must go to Steve Lewis who spent many long hours in dialogue with Piri’s European and New Zealand agents at unearthly hours to land this deal.”