Max Lahiff off to Melbourne

Neil Fissler revealed the first contacts in The Rugby Paper months ago but London Irish confirmed today that Max Lahiff will join the Melbourne Rebels at the end of the season.
The 23-year-old prop forward has signed a two-year deal with the Australian Super Rugby side and will leave for the Southern Hemisphere in June.
Lahiff, who qualifies to play for Australia through his father, joined the London Irish Academy in 2009. He has since made 59 first team appearances and scored his first try in the 33-33 draw with Sale last month.
Lahiff said: “I have thoroughly enjoyed playing for London Irish. The club signed me from school and have played an imperative part in my development as a player.
“Moving to the Rebels is an exciting opportunity for me and I am looking forward to playing in the Super Rugby competition. There are still two games left for London Irish this season and I will be playing my heart out to ensure we finish the season well.”
London Irish director of rugby Brian Smith added: “Max is a terrific player and a young man with great values, he’ll do well at the Rebels and may go on to play for the Wallabies. He’s played hard for us all season and he’ll always be welcome back at the club as a player.”