Melbourne Rebels have confirmed the signing of former England international lock Geoff Parling.
The 33-year-old, who helped Exeter win the Aviva Premiership title with victory over Wasps at Twickenham 10 days ago, will join in time for the 2018 Super Rugby season.
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It is thought that Parling, a member of the British and Irish Lions squad in Australia four years ago, will play in Japan on a short-team deal until he links up with the Rebels.
The Rebels’ future is currently uncertain with one Australian team seemingly set to be cut from next year’s Super Rugby competition – a reduction from 18 to 15 sides is planned – but it has not stopped them pressing ahead with recruitment.
Our 2018 campaign is boosted today with the signing of England lock Geoff Parling. Welcome to the Rebels family! https://t.co/0Y4GapdyI0 pic.twitter.com/5z9MpIR782
— Melbourne Rebels (@MelbourneRebels) June 6, 2017
Parling, who won 29 caps and was part of England’s 2015 World Cup squad, spent two seasons with Exeter after joining them from Leicester.
“Geoff’s signing is a strategic recruitment for the club as we look to evolve our squad and programme for 2018 and beyond,” Rebels chief executive Baden Stephenson told the franchise’s official website.
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“Geoff boasts a wealth of international and domestic experience in successful rugby programmes, so he will contribute to the strong leadership at the club, along with his world-class line-out skills and hard-running qualities which will complement our squad.”
Parling, meanwhile, added: “After some really enjoyable years in the Premiership, I am excited about the opportunity to test myself in the southern hemisphere that Super Rugby brings.
“Hopefully, I can add value to the Rebels and help the team continue the great growth and profile of rugby in Victoria.”
