WASPS HAVE ANNOUNCED the arrival of experienced flanker George Smith on a one-year deal.
The 34-year-old, who earned 111 caps for Australia, joins the Premiership club having most recently played with Lyon.
He also counts Toulon and Stade Francais as former clubs, while he enjoyed three years in Japan with Suntory Sungoliath after over a decade in Super Rugby with Brumbies.
Smith is in the Barbarians squad to face Ireland at Thomond Park on Thursday and the announcement comes days after Wasps confirmed four new signings including Irish centres James Downey and Brendan Macken.
“I am very excited to be joining Wasps,” said Smith. “I have always admired their history in Europe and it’s clear from developments on and off the field this season that Wasps are a very progressive and ambitious club, who are determined to get back to the top of the European game.
“I have really enjoyed the experience of playing in France, Japan and Australia and I am extremely motivated to test myself in the Aviva Premiership. Wasps have a really exciting group of young and talented players and I hope to be able to use my experience to help develop that talent.”
Wasps’ Director of Rugby Dai Young added: “George Smith is one of the greats of his generation. To be able to add a player of his international experience and quality is a real coup for Wasps.
“Despite being 34 years old, he has shown through his form at Lyon this season that he is still one of the sharpest operators in the game. He is in tremendous shape and his reading of the game and winning mentality should benefit Wasps hugely next season.”
