London Irish Swoop For Willis

Former Leinster and Ireland ‘A’ scrum-half Ben Willis has signed a two-year contract with London Irish, after making 15 French league appearances for Beziers in 2004/05.

The 28-year-old, who linked up with Jean-Pierre Elissalde’s side last July, is joining the Exiles along with Wellington Hurricanes’ fly-half Riki Flutey.

Willis, who scored a try for Beziers in this season’s European Challenge Cup, is due to report for pre-season training next month at Irish’s Madejski Stadium.

London Irish Director of Rugby and former Ireland fly-half Brian Smith said of the moves: “These latest signings maintain the club’s tradition of recruiting from the best talent available in both hemispheres. Anyone that is familiar with the Super 12 tournament will be aware of Riki Flutey and his contribution to the successful Hurricanes team.

“Ben Willis is a talented scrum-half with a pass that is known for its length and accuracy. Both players will offer us more options in these crucial positions in the team.”

Willis, who is also related to the great nineteenth-century English novelist Jane Austen, was released from his Leinster contract in May 2003.