Brendan McKibbin: London Irish sign scrum-half from Waratahs

McKibbin won the 2014 Super Rugby title with the Waratahs

London Irish's recruitment for next season has continued with the signing of Brendan McKibbin from Super Rugby champions, the Sydney-based Waratahs.

The 29-year-old scrum-half has made 59 appearances for the Waratahs, coming on as a replacement in last year's final.

"Brendan is a top-class player and a real leader on and off the field," said London Irish director Bob Casey.

The Exiles announced the signing of All Blacks prop Ben Franks and Scotland winger Sean Maitland last week.

"We have plenty of quality in the scrum-half position and Brendan joining will only strengthen that competition," added Casey.

"He has a great work-rate, comes from a winning environment and knows what it takes to win trophies."

McKibbin, who is also a reliable goalkicker, has played with players of the calibre of Israel Folau, Kurtley Beale and Brendan Foley at the Waratahs, vying with Australia international Nick Phipps for the number nine jersey.

"I am delighted to be joining the club," said the former Queensland Reds player, who was born in Scotland.

"I spoke at length with Bob and I am looking forward to be a part of the set up. The facilities are hugely impressive and I'm really excited by the direction the club is looking to go in."

Exiles scrum-half Tomas O'Leary will be leaving the club at the end of the season to join Irish province Munster.