Force outside back Luke Morahan is heading to Bristol, the UK club confirmed overnight.
Morahan has been one of the vital cogs in the Force’s backline since moving west ahead of the 2014 season.
The 26-year-old shot back into the Wallabies frame last year after a three-year absence from Test rugby and started at fullback against France.
Morahan told Bristol’s website he was looking forward to the change, joining the recently promoted side.
“I’m excited about the opportunity to play in England, but also to be a part of the ambitious journey that Bristol Rugby is on,” he said.
“The Club’s management sold me the vision and how much rugby means to the people of the city.
BREAKING: #BristolRugby delighted to confirm the arrival of Australian international @ljmorahan ahead of 2017/18 campaign. #WelcomeToBristol pic.twitter.com/LNntoWglYr
— Bristol Rugby (@Bristol_RFC) March 20, 2017
“It’s an exciting new challenge and one me and my family are looking forward to. I am confident that everything is in place at Bristol for us to be a successful club.”
It’s been a rollercoaster season for Bristol, who sacked former coach Andy Robinson early on in the season, before appointing current Connacht coach Pat Lam for 2017-18 and beyond.
Interim coach Mark Tainton said Morahan would be a handy addition for the side.
“Luke is an impressive player with excellent technical abilities. He’s got a lot of raw pace and versatility and can play across the backline,” he said.
“We were really encouraged by Luke’s attitude and enthusiasm throughout the recruitment process. He’s an international player who wants to play for Bristol Rugby and has really bought in to what we are trying to achieve.”
Bristol currently sits at the bottom of the Premiership ladder, having won just three of its 17 games so far.
