Leinster Rugby have added to their squad ahead of the new season with the signing of Wallaby Owen Finegan from Newcastle Falcons.
Having joined the Falcons in the summer of 2005, the Australian boasts considerable experience at both Test and Super 12 level.
A stalwart with the ACT Brumbies side in Canberra since its foundation 10 years ago, Finegan went on to become the most prolific forward in the history of the competition, averaging an incredible try-scoring ratio of around one every three games during more than 90 Super 12 outings.
Twice his side have lifted the Super 12 trophy, the last time being in May 2004 when they defeated the Crusaders in the final with Finegan as captain.
Owen made 19 appearances for Newcastle in the 2005/'06 season, scoring three tries. He will join compatriot Chris Whitaker, Stephen Keogh and Trevor Hogan in committing to the province for next season.
Leinster coach Michael Cheika said: 'Owen's experience and knowledge of the game, coupled with his no-nonsense approach to rugby will be a huge benefit to this Leinster side in its ambitions for 2006/07.
'His leadership influence on a strong group of young back rows and locks, already at the club, will also add invaluably to Leinster’s future.
'I have had the fortune of both playing and coaching Owen and I know that his commitment to playing the game is second to none.
Couple this with his strong Irish origins and his long time desire to play rugby in the land of his parents where he still has many family ties all leads to Owen making a massive contribution at Leinster in the coming season.'
