London Scottish have signed England U20 World Cup winner Tom Smallbone from London Irish.
Smallbone left the relegated Aviva Premiership side after coming through the academy system and making more than 40 appearances for the Irish Exiles.
He is a powerful prop who will throw himself about the field in both attack and defence and was part of the England Under 20 side that won the Junior World Cup in 2013.
Smallbone, 24, was part of a talented squad which included players like Jack Nowell, Anthony Watson and Henry Slade, all who have progressed on to international honours.
The loosehead has huge potential that head coach Nic Rouse will be looking to unlock over the coming season.
Smallbone said: “I am looking forward to the challenge of Championship rugby.
“Having spent the past couple of weeks with the squad and seen the way we are training, I am really excited for the season to get underway.”
But he will combining his rugby with his job at cost management consultancy firm TowerEight.
He added: “I’m currently working on a number of hotel projects with TowerEight’s Whitbread team both in and around London and I’m looking forward to gaining experience in other sectors whilst furthering my sporting career at London Scottish.”
The company was founded by four directors who have worked together for more than 20 years and they recognised the opportunity to create property solutions, which generate a real commercial difference for clients in an increasingly competitive market.
Toby Wait, a director at TowerEight said: “TowerEight is pleased to welcome Tom to our Whitbread team.
“As a company with a keen interest in sport, we’re glad to hear of Tom’s signing with London Scottish, and will be supporting him all the way.”
Feature image of Tom Smallbone courtesy of David Horn, with thanks
