Leigh Halfpenny and Wyn Jones sign for Harlequins to add injury cover to the Premiership side
Updated 31/07/2024 at 14:37 GMT+1
Leigh Halfpenny has signed for Harlequins after enduring an injury disrupted year at Crusaders. The former Wales fullback suffered a muscular problem in pre-season which delayed his debut in Super Rugby but he was able to return to action in May. Wyn Jones has also arrived at the Twickenham Stoop after being released by Scarlets at the end of last season.
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Harlequins have signed former Wales internationals Leigh Halfpenny and Wyn Jones for the 2024-25 season.
After retiring from international rugby, Halfpenny moved to Super Rugby Pacific champions Crusaders on a one-year deal.
However, he suffered damage to a pectoral muscle on the club’s pre-season tour, so his impact was restricted when he returned to action in May.
Halfpenny will now provide injury cover for the Quins in the new season, with Tyrone Green the only specialist full-back in their senior squad.
In a statement announcing his arrival, Halfpenny said: “I’m excited to join Quins and I’m grateful for the opportunity to continue my career with such an iconic club.
“I have always admired the Premiership and I’m keen to grab this opportunity with both hands and contribute to the Quins DNA.
“I’m looking forward to getting stuck in and running out in front of a packed Stoop.”
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Halfpenny has nearly 200 domestic appearances to his name at teams including Cardiff and Scarlets.
Harlequins head coach Danny Wilson made clear his delight at adding Halfpenny to the squad.
“We’re thrilled to welcome Leigh to Quins,” he told the club’s website.
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“His experience speaks for itself, and he will bring plenty of leadership, expertise and high standards to our squad, helping mentor our talented stable of back three players alongside bringing the benefit of his enormous experience to the wider squad.
“He’s an incredible athlete, highly skilful and adaptive across multiple positions. We’re confident he’ll make a strong impact at Quins this season.”
Wyn Jones adds front-row power
Halfpenny's former international team-mate Wyn Jones is also on his way to the Stoop.
The 48-cap Welshman left Scarlets at the end of last season following a decade with the club.
“I’m delighted to join Quins and can’t wait to test myself in the Premiership, and work alongside an exciting group of players," Jones said.
"I’ve heard great things about the Club and the supporters, and I’m excited to work with Bomb (Adam Jones) to improve my game and help Quins achieve our objectives this season.”
Wilson added: “We’re excited to have Wyn Jones at Quins. He’s an experienced and hard-working player who adds significant cover to our front-row.
"He’s a powerful scrummager and strong ball carrier who’ll become an integral part of our pack this season.”
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