Harlequins swoop for Wales and British and Irish Lions legend
Leigh Halfpenny will return to the Wales coaching staff for the Nations Championship
Harlequins have confirmed the capture of former British and Irish Lions star Leigh Halfpenny with immediate effect.
The Welsh international joins the club from the Crusaders, where he missed a large chunk of their Super Rugby campaign through a pectoral injury, and only made one appearance for the Canterbury-based club. He joins the Premiership side as injury cover.
Commenting on joining Harlequins, Halfpenny said: “I’m excited to join Quins and I’m grateful for the opportunity to continue my career with such an iconic club.”
He added: “I have always admired the Premiership and I’m keen to grab this opportunity with both hands and contribute to the Quins DNA. I’m looking forward to getting stuck in and running out in front of a packed Stoop.”
Quins head coach Danny Wilson expressed his joy at the signing of the versatile back, saying: “We’re thrilled to welcome Leigh to Quins. His experience speaks for itself, and he will bring plenty of leadership, expertise and high standards to our squad, helping mentor our talented stable of back three players alongside bringing the benefit of his enormous experience to the wider squad.
“He’s an incredible athlete, highly skilful and adaptive across multiple positions. We’re confident he’ll make a strong impact at Quins this season.”
Adding experience to Harlequins
Halfpenny has had a glittering career at both club and international level. He made his professional debut for Cardiff, and across his spells at Toulon and the Scarlets has amassed over 200 domestic appearances.
After making his Wales debut in 2008, Halfpenny went on to win over 100 caps before retiring from international duty in November last year.
He represented his country at three World Cups and during his Wales career tallied an impressive 801 points.
His form at Test level was also rewarded with three British and Irish Lions tours, where he won four Test caps and was named Player of the Series in the 2013 victory over Australia.
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