IRISH RUGBY FANS have been so focused on railing against the spending power of the French and English clubs that they are neglecting to monitor the robust transfer dealings of a club closer to home.
Well, not geographically closer to home but since they compete in the same league as the provinces, it is interesting to see Zebre add another former southern hemisphere international to their squad.
Former Toulouse and Waratahs scrum-half Luke Burgess was always behind Will Genia in the Wallaby queue but he is a sharp passer and a sneaky sniper who should bring a lot to the Italian side.
Add that to Mils Muliaina and that is two seasoned internationals added to Zebre in the last few weeks.
It would actually be a great thing for the league if Zebre bought a raft of high-profile signings and became competitive. After London Welsh, they have been the worst team in the three main northern hemisphere leagues this season so anything that can change the dynamic of the Pro12 would probably be worth it.
The IRFU better lock down the rest of their big stars before Zebre start planning an audacious raid that takes 50% of the national team to Parma.
