London Welsh sign Daniel Browne
London Welsh have further strengthened their squad for next season with the signing of versatile forward Daniel Browne.
Browne, 33, is equally comfortable at number 8, blindside flanker or in the second row, and joins the Exiles from last season’s French Pro D2 champions Grenoble.
Physically very strong and athletic, with a high work rate, Browne brings a wealth of Premiership and Heineken Cup experience to London Welsh.
Born in Auckland, Browne had a spell with Bedford Blues after first arriving from New Zealand, before joining Grenoble in 2002, where he benefited latterly from the tutelage of former England and Lions international Dean Richards.
He spent three seasons in France before joining Northampton Saints in 2005, where he made his Premiership debut.
After two seasons at Franklin’s Gardens, Browne moved on to Bath, where he spent three seasons. In 2008 he was part of the Bath side that won the Amlin Challenge Cup, beating Worcester Warriors 24-16 in the final at Kingsholm.
He joined Leeds Carnegie in 2010 before returning to Grenoble last season.
Commenting on joining London Welsh, Browne said: “London Welsh have performed really well over the last couple of years in the Championship and it’s great to join a team that’s playing so well.
“The style of rugby they play is really good, it suits the way I play and hopefully I can fit in. Following the Championship and seeing what London Welsh have achieved, it’s a great opportunity.
“I spoke to a few players who’d worked with Lyn [Jones] and you can see the way London Welsh play reflected in the way he coaches. I think it will great to get on board with the boys there.”
London Welsh Head Coach Lyn Jones said: “Daniel will be a good role model. It’s important to have good role models in the squad when our squad is young and inexperienced, of what it takes to be a top professional. He’s also very hard-working and will bring a physical presence.”