CHIEFS Parling to begin "new chapter" at Exeter
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- Last Updated on Thursday, 29 January 2015 09:33
- Published on Thursday, 29 January 2015 06:50
Geoff Parling is ready to start a new chapter of his playing career after today agreeing terms on a two-year contract with Exeter Chiefs.
The England and British Lions forward is Rob Baxter’s first major signing ahead of the 2015/16 season and joins Chiefs from Aviva Premiership rivals Leicester Tigers.
Signed by the Tigers in 2009 from Newcastle Falcons, the 31-year-old has enjoyed a stellar spell at Welford Road where he helped the East Midlands club to twice lift English rugby’s Premiership title, as well as featuring in all three Test matches for the Lions against Australia in 2013.
With 21 England caps to his name, the Teesside-born star has established himself not only within the Leicester playing ranks, but also at international level where he is a key figure in Stuart Lancaster’s long-term plans.
Parling's summer arrival comes a year after former Tigers club-mate Thomas Waldrom switched to Sandy Park. Waldrom has already established himself as a fans' favourite and Pariling is set to follow suit.
“It’s an exciting move for me and a new challenge at the Chiefs that I’m very much looking forward to,” Parling told exeetrchiefs.co.uk “They have a great set-up down there and a young, enthusiastic bunch of boys who play a grand brand of rugby.
“I’ve spoken to one or two people about the club and the area and it’s all been very positive. Of course it will be a change of scenery, but it’s a new chapter in my career and one that I’m keen to take on.”
• Parling will be positive influence
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