London Irish sign a deal with Mike Mayhew

The front row has been offered a three-year contract with the club.

The New Zealander started playing for London Irish, on a Loan deal from Newcastle Falcons, earlier in the season..

Mike, 26 from Auckland, was brought in as injury cover for the club and enjoyed four appearances for the club including two Aviva Premiership games.

After joining the Falcons from North Harbour, New Zealand, the hooker played in 30 matches for the club and scored two tries.

Mike, who through his Dad, is qualified to play for England as well as New Zealand, signed for the Falcons along with his brother, Richard. The pair come from a successful rugby family, their younger brother being a regular star performer for Harlequins.

London Irish Director of Rugby Brian Smith said Mike had made a big impression when he played for his side earlier in the season. “I’m delighted he has bought into our vision for the future of the club.”

Mike fits into the London Irish ‘style of play’ with his size couple with his dynamic ball carrying. Smith also feels confident in his “potential to play test rugby” for England.

Mike “really enjoyed” his time at Sunbury earlier in the year but will also be able to enjoy the new Hazelwood training facilities due to open next year. Describing the London Irish fans he said, “The passionate support was fantastic, I look forward to playing in front of them a lot more next season.”