O’Brien in shock move to the Exiles

RUGBY UNION: Ireland back row Sean O’Brien is to join London Irish from Leinster after this year’s World Cup, the clubs have announced.

The 31-year-old, who has 54 Ireland caps and has toured twice with the British and Irish Lions, will move in December after more than a decade of service to Leinster.

By then the Exiles, who currently lead the Championship, would hope to be back in the Gallagher Premiership – they are currently top of the Championship with 13 wins in 14 matches.

O’Brien’s achievements in the club game include four Heineken Cup successes and two Pro 14 final victories. In all, he has made 122 appearances for the province since making his debut in 2008.

O’Brien said: “This is one of the hardest decisions I have ever had to make. I have played all my rugby in Ireland.

“That being said, I feel the time has come to explore new opportunities, to challenge myself at a new environment, in a new city, with a new club.”