London raid Franze from Panthers

London Irish have raided Australian rugby league for their latest signing - Penrith Panthers centre Paul Franze.

Franze, who joined Penrith from their NRL rivals Cronulla Sharks earlier this year, will link up with the Exiles next month when his current rugby league commitments finish.

He has agreed a two-year contract, and will look to make an immediate impact in the Guinness Premiership after recovering from a serious knee injury.

Franze, 23, has played for Australia’s Junior Kangaroos representative side, with more than 60 NRL appearances under his belt.