LONDON Irish have announced a quartet of international stars – including World Cup-winning wing Waisake Naholo – will be playing for Exiles next season.

Having returned to the Gallagher Premiership at the first time of asking, Declan Kidney has moved swiftly to bolster his squad with the fellow acquisitions of 103-time capped Australian prop Sekope Kepu, Wallaby second row Coleman and Irish fly-half Paddy Jackson.

Naholo has 16 tries in his 26 games for New Zealand, and is rated as one of the best wings in the world, having also run in a further 41 in his 58 Super Rugby appearances for the Highlanders, a franchise record.

Speaking on his signing, Kidney commented: "“Waisake is a top-class player who will bring great experience with him, which we hope he can pass onto our younger players as they continue their development with us.

“We are delighted a player of his ability and age profile has bought into our vision for where we as a club are working hard to get to.”

Jackson's signing has divided opinion among some Exiles supporters in light of his rape trial alongside then Ulster teammate Stuart Olding, although the pair were both acquitted early last year.

And Kidney said: “Players of the calibre of Paddy Jackson do not become available very often and both myself and Les are looking forward to working with him in the future.

“He is a player with proven international quality who we feel will add value to our squad, and it is pleasing Paddy sees London Irish as a part of his future.”

On Kepu he added: “He will bring valuable experience to our front-row and having proved himself at the highest level, we are excited to have him join us here at Hazelwood.”

Coleman was the last to put pen to paper earlier today (Thursday), and Kidney reflected: “We have a strong set of forwards, but know that we need strength in depth if we want to be competitive. Adam is a quality player and we’re delighted he has chosen to come and join London Irish. We are looking forward to welcoming him to Hazelwood later in the year.”

The player himself added: “I’m really looking forward to joining London Irish.

“It’s been clear talking to Declan and Les that they’ve got big ambitions for the club, and as well as a good squad already in place, they are making some exciting signings as well. The plans for moving back into London look really good as well, and it will be a privilege to be a part of that journey.

“Before I move to London I’ll be fully committed to having a good Super Rugby campaign in Melbourne and hopefully helping Australia achieve success in the World Cup.”