Irish beef up pack

London Irish have landed the signatures of Nottingham front five forwards Matt Parr and Nic Rouse on two-year deals.

Both players worked under current London Irish forwards coach Glenn Delaney whilst he was Director of Rugby at the Midlands club.

Parr is a 29-year-old loosehead prop who has previous Premiership experience with Leicester, Sale and Saracens. He will bring with him a wealth of experience in the front row position for the next two seasons.

Rouse is a second row who has been around the Midlands club since 2006 and has played over 160 games. In his first season with Nottingham he was awarded 'Player of the Year'.

He previously spent time on loan with London Irish in 2008, before he signed a one-year deal to play for Sale Sharks.

London Irish Director of Rugby Brian Smith said: “We are delighted to have these two players on board for the next few seasons. Matt will bring massive strength, work rate and experience in a key position which will be crucial for us going forward.

“Nic also has a great work rate and is a very physical player. Glenn Delaney has worked with both Nic and Matt and is very happy that both will be joining us next season.”

Commenting on signing for the Exiles, Parr said: "I’m looking forward to joining London Irish next season. They are an ambitious club with some great players. Until then I will be concentrating on Nottingham and the club’s promotion push.”

Rouse echoed his teammate’s words, saying: “It will be an exciting challenge when I join London Irish in the summer.

“They have really showed in the last few months that they are a top side and I am sure we can push on next season. There is still work to be done at Nottingham and that will have my full attention until the end of this season.”