AUSTRALIA INTERNATIONAL SCOTT Fardy has been officially unveiled as a Leinster player after joining the province from the Brumbies.
The 33-year-old has been drafted in to play exclusively as a second row for the three-time European champions despite his proficiency as a blindside flanker, and today gave his first interview as a Leinster player in which he explained why he made the switch from Down Under.
“Aw, it’s just… I’ve been to Dublin a few times before and loved the city, and it’s a prestigious club, so to join a club like this is just a fantastic opportunity,” Fardy told Leinster Rugby TV.
“With the way the Irish set up, only a few guys get to play here. I’m just honoured to be one of those guys.”
The 39-cap Wallaby, who scored nine tries in 82 Super Rugby appearances for the Brumbies (including four last season), hails from Sydney, but told Leinster fans he’s excited about various aspects of his move north, not all of them purely rugby-related.
“That’s part of the reason why I wanted to come here and play European rugby, places like the RDS; packed houses and lots of pressure and all that stuff. That’s what rugby’s about. I’m looking forward to it.
“[There are] unbelievable facilities here, and players have been very friendly. I’ve only spent a few days here. Back into training tomorrow, so looking forward to complimenting what’s a pretty amazing squad already.
Just getting to know everybody – I think that’s important. I want to know every guy, every squad member, every staff member, and build those relationships going into the season. And maybe getting the odd game of golf in if I can, because there are a few good courses around I think!
The six-foot-six lock spent five seasons at the Canberra franchise since his breakthrough in 2012, and it’s understood he has signed a two-year contract with the eastern province.
“It gave me a lot,” Fardy said of his Brumbies career. “I’m very grateful for the six seasons I spent there.
“They gave me my first opportunity to play Super Rugby, and then from there came Test rugby. So hugely grateful for the opportunity I got there, and grateful to Leinster for giving me the opportunity now.”
#WelcomeScott 👊 pic.twitter.com/C0d2kvDjCZ
— Leinster Rugby (@leinsterrugby) August 3, 2017
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