Aviva Premiership Rugby club London Irish have signed former England Saxons captain and lock George Skivington from Leicester in a three-year deal.

London Irish is delighted to announce that George Skivington has signed a three year deal to join the club from next season.

Standing 6'6" and weighing over 18 stones, the imposing 29 year old lock will bring plenty of physicality to the London Irish pack, as well as his ability to get around the park.

Skivington captained the England Saxons for two seasons and guided his side to victory in the 2010 Churchill Cup. He joins the Exiles from Leicester Tigers where he has made 39 appearances over the last two seasons.

Prior to this he spent eight seasons at London Wasps where he won both the Heineken Cup and Premiership titles whilst making 125 appearances.

Born in Warrington, Cheshire, he attended Wimbledon College and John Fisher School, before joining the Saracens Academy.

Commenting on his decision to join London Irish, Skivington said: “Having worked with Toby Booth at Saxons level before, I know what he is about and what he expects from his players. Irish are an ambitious club with a strong coaching set-up and there are lots of talented players in the squad that I look forward to playing alongside."

London Irish head coach Toby Booth said: “George is a powerhouse and a very physical player who will bring additional size and strength to the front five of our forward pack. "

"I already have firsthand knowledge of George having coached him previously and have always been impressed with his work ethic and on-field leadership. His experience and success means that he brings with him not only a wealth of knowledge, honesty and hard work but also a winning mentality."

"He has a lot to offer London Irish both on and off the field and I very much look forward to working with him again."