Tuesday 7 May 2019 11:40, UK
London Irish have signed former Ulster and Ireland fly-half Paddy Jackson from Perpignan ahead of their return to the Premiership.
Along with former team-mate Stuart Olding, Jackson had his contracts with the Irish Rugby Football Union and Ulster revoked in April 2018 following a review of a rape trial, in which they were both cleared.
That led to his move to join Catalan side Perpignan, where he was seen as one of the star names following their promotion to the Top 14.
But the side have struggled in the top division and have already been relegated - having won just two games all season - leading to Jackson's transfer to London Irish, where he becomes the second signing in two days after Sekope Kepu.
"I'm delighted to be joining London Irish next season at such an exciting and pivotal time for everyone involved with the club," Jackson said.
"London Irish have a clear vision for where they want to be and I look forward to being part of it."
Jackson will be reunited up with London Irish director of rugby Declan Kidney, who awarded the 26-year-old his first international cap in 2013.
"Players of the calibre of Paddy Jackson do not become available very often and both myself and Les are looking forward to working with him in the future," Kidney said.
"He is a player with proven international quality who we feel will add value to our squad, and it is pleasing that Paddy sees London Irish as a part of his future."
