Leinster Complete Signing Of Gopperth

Leinster have announced the signing of out-half Jimmy Gopperth. The New Zealander will join the province from Newcastle Falcons this summer on a two-year deal.

Out-half Jimmy Gopperth boasts vast Super 14 experience with 363 points in 53 outings for the Blues and Hurricanes, as well as starring for New Zealand’s second-string national side, the Junior All Blacks, in winning the Pacific Nations Cup.

Having steered New Zealand to victory in the Under-21 World Championship final back in 2004, Gopperth played in the Air New Zealand Cup for Wellington and North Harbour, adding value with his accurate goal=kicking and dynamic playmaking.

Gopperth, 29, joined the Newcastle Falcons three seasons ago and to date has scored 719 points in 70 appearances.

Commenting on the move, Leinster head coach Joe Schmidt said: “We are delighted that Jimmy has put pen to paper on a deal and we believe that he will be an excellent foil for Ian Madigan, bringing added depth and experience to the out-half position when he joins this summer.

“Even though Newcastle have struggled in recent years, he has been a hugely consistent performer during his time in England where he won back-to-back Premiership Golden Boot awards.”