Thorpe confirmed as a Tiger

Leicester Tigers have completed the signing of London Irish flanker Richard Thorpe ahead of the new Aviva Premiership season.

The 27-year-old began training with the club earlier this week, but it is only today that his move to Welford Road has been confirmed. Thorpe began his Premiership career with Saracens in 2003 before making the switch to the Exiles in 2005. He has played an integral role for the London club in the seven years that have followed and appeared as a substitute in the 2008/09 Premiership Grand Final, which, ironically, ended in defeat to the Tigers. Irish will pay a part of Thorpe's wages during his first season with the Tigers and Leicester director of rugby Richard Cockerill believes the deal represents tremendous value for money for the club. "That is very cost-effective for us. He's a quality player. He has played a lot of rugby in the Premiership, is experienced and will slot straight in," he said. Thorpe can also slot in at number 8, but is likely to be utilised in his preferred position at flanker in the upcoming season, as the Tigers aim to build on last season's second-placed finish and Grand Final appearance.