Buckland signs for Exiles
Wed, 30 Apr 2008 13:39
James Buckland, the former England Under-21 and England A hooker, has signed a two year contract with London Irish and will join the club in July.
The 27-year-old Aylesbury born forward joins from London Wasps who he has played for this season following a move from Leicester Tigers last summer.
During his time at Welford Road James scored 12 tries and played in three Premiership Finals as well as the 2007 Heineken Cup Final.
London Irish's Director of Rugby Brian Smith said: "The demands on our front row are such that it is essential we have strength in depth in each position."
"We have to plan for international callups and injury and are pleased to have been able to recruit a player like James [Buckland] who has invaluable experience of competing at the highest level in this country and Europe," added Smith.
Buckland was equally pleased with his move to the Exiles.
"I'm really excited about my involvement with London Irish," he said.
"I've been following the success the boys have had in the Heineken Cup this year and am looking forward to playing a part in building on that momentum in the Guinness Premiership and in Europe next season," he added.
