Horwill signs with 'Quins until 2020

Former Australia captain James Horwill extended his contract with English Premiership club Harlequins until 2020 on Tuesday.

The 31-year-old second-row forward -- capped 62 times and captain of the Wallabies at the 2011 World Cup -- has been with the club since joining from Super Rugby franchise Queensland Reds in 2015.

 "From the moment James joined 18 months ago, he has shown himself to be both a world-class player and an outstanding leader," director of rugby James Kingston told the club website.

 

Excited to have extended my time here at @harlequins. Love being part of this group and hopefully can help the club achieve success. Thanks to all the fans for your ongoing support. #COYQ

A photo posted by James Horwill (@jhorwill) on Dec 20, 2016 at 7:38am PST

"His infectious enthusiasm and drive illustrates exactly why he captained Australia on 16 occasions and he has proved a shining example to the rest of the squad.

"In extending his contract to the summer of 2020, he has crucially committed himself long term.

"This signing is a statement of our intent for the coming years."

Harlequins -- who in 2012 won their only domestic league title -- are presently sixth in the Premiership table after 10 games, 15 points adrift of leaders and defending champions Saracens.