Aviva Premiership
Irish draft in Patrick Phibbs
ESPN Staff
December 28, 2012
Leicester's Patrick Phibbs is caught by Shane Christie, Leicester Tigers v Maori All Blacks, Welford Road, Leicester, November 13, 2012
Patrick Phibbs will feature on London Irish's bench for their match with Harlequins on Saturday © PA Photos
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London Irish have bolstered their scrum-half options with the recruitment of Patrick Phibbs on a short-term deal.

Phibbs is currently contracted to the Leicester Tigers but has found his involvement limited to just five appearances this season. He joined the Tigers from the Exeter Chiefs where he turned out three times during the 2011-12 season and before that he played for the Brumbies in Super Rugby.

He will provide cover for the injured Tomas O'Leary who is set to be out for the rest of the season with a back injury. London Irish director of rugby Brian Smith explained the decision saying: "With Tomás sidelined for what could be the remainder of the season we've been proactive in signing Pat Phibbs. I worked with Pat at the Brumbies and have great respect for his ability.

"He's an experienced scrum half, good organiser and strong defender. He also has knowledge of the English season so he's a pretty good fit for us. Both Darren Allinson and Jack Moates have stepped up since Tomás was injured but they are still young so it makes sense to bring in an experienced player. We've got at least 16 matches left in our season so there'll be plenty of rugby for all three scrum halves."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.

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