Leinster pull off Fardy coup

Pro12 leaders Leinster have pulled off a coup by signing Australia international Scott Fardy from Brumbies.

A matter of hours after Brumbies confirmed that Fardy would end his six-year stay with the Super Rugby club at the end of the season, Leinster announced they have landed the 32-year-old flanker.

Fardy, capped 39 times for the Wallabies, has not ruled out playing in the 2019 World Cup but is eager to take on a new challenge before then.

Leinster Rugby head Coach Leo Cullen said: "Scott is a player of considerable talent and experience and we are looking forward to welcoming him to Leinster.

"In order to compete consistently on two fronts in the Pro12 and the Champions Cup we need to have competition across the team and while Scott has played a lot of rugby in the back row, we have signed Scott as a second row and believe he will complement the second row options that we already have here in Leinster.

"It is certainly an exciting announcement for the team and for our supporters ahead of next season."

BREAKING: @Scottfardy to join Leinster at the end of the Super Rugby season... https://t.co/8dyr1QfIGi #ScottFardy pic.twitter.com/rd3Xq0jB1T

— Leinster Rugby (@leinsterrugby) March 3, 2017

Fardy stated: "I am delighted to be joining Leinster Rugby a club with a rich heritage and a proud tradition.

"I've enjoyed hugely my time with the Brumbies since making my debut in 2012 but this is an exciting opportunity for me to challenge myself in a new club and a different country.

"I am very grateful to the Brumbies and the Australian fans for all the support over the years and I am committed to seeing out the Super Rugby season in a positive manner and that continues this weekend against the Sharks."