British & Irish Lion Sean Maitland is heading south of the border next summer after the Scottish international signed a deal with London Irish.
Maitland, who plays for Glasgow Warriors, made five appearances for the Lions in 2013 – scoring a try against the Melbourne Rebels.
And he will be aiming to return in 2017 as the touring party head to the country of his birth New Zealand to take on the All Blacks.
For now Maitland will start plying his trade at English club London Irish, who have already announced the signing of New Zealand international Ben Franks after the Rugby World Cup later this year.
Chiefs assistant coach Tom Coventry will also take the reins at the Madejski Stadium next season and Maitland is relishing the chance to help return the club to its pomp.
"Having spoken to Bob Casey and Glenn Delaney and knowing how Tom Coventry operates as a coach, helped with my decision making,” said Maitland.
"The structure off the field is exceptional and with the appointments that have been made, the club is clearly striving to get back to the top of the European game and I’m looking forward to being involved in that process.
"I've really enjoyed my time in Glasgow and it's been great being part of the club over the last three years.
"Since moving to Glasgow I've been selected to play for Scotland and the British & Irish Lions, so I'm grateful to Scottish Rugby for the opportunity to come over here.
"I'm looking forward to my new challenge in London next season, but all my focus will be on the Warriors until then, starting with a massive game against Bath this weekend.”
