London Scottish is delighted to announce the signing of former New Zealand under-21 back-row forward Chris Walker on a one-year-contract.

The 28-year-old joins from Cottesloe Rugby Club in Perth, Australia where he has been playing during the off season following a spell in England with Doncaster Knights. 

Walker has spent most of his career playing for New Zealand provincial outfit Taranaki in the ITM Cup and helped them lift the Ranfurly Shield in 2011.

The Wanganui-born forward was also part of the New Zealand Maori squad which toured England in 2012.

Walker, who goes straight into the squad to face Bristol Rugby on Friday, said: “I am really pleased to be here and it’s great coming into a winning side which is competing at the top end of the Championship.

“I have only been here a few days but it’s obvious that this is a really talented group of players who are keen to do well this season.

“Bristol will be a huge test for me but I’ve had a good training week and I cannot wait for Friday night.”

London Scottish Head Coach James Buckland said: “Chris is the right kind of player for us, not afraid of the physical confrontation and I’m excited to see him play.

“He can play across the back-row and has a good skill set and very good contact skills. He can carry and link up play but is most useful around the contact area.

“We have integrated him quickly into the squad and I have been impressed with what he has shown so far.

“He has a good pedigree, plenty of experience and is keen to impress on Friday night.”