Australia lock James Horwill will join Harlequins from Queensland Rugby after the 2015 World Cup, the English Premiership club announced on Wednesday.
The 29-year-old has agreed a three-year contract with Harlequins as he prepares for his first spell in English rugby.
Horwill has played 58 times for Australia, captaining the side on 16 of those occasions, including during the 2011 World Cup campaign.
He also captained the Australian side which faced the British and Irish Lions in 2013.
At club level, Horwill has played over 100 times for Queensland Reds and in 2011 he captained the team to their maiden Super Rugby title.
Confirming the signing Harlequins director of rugby Conor O'Shea said: "I'm delighted that we've attracted someone of James' standing in the game to play for us following the completion of the Rugby World Club next year.
"James is known around the world not only for his uncompromising style of play but also for his strength of character.
"He will be an asset for us on the field and within the changing room."
Horwill added: "As hard as it will be to leave Ballymore, my team mates, the staff and all my fans and friends in Queensland, I've been offered a fantastic opportunity with Harlequins to experience rugby in another part of the world and this is right for me at this stage of my rugby career.
"I'm completely committed to helping the Reds and Australia achieve success in this World Cup year and then I'll turn my attention to the next chapter of my life in rugby with Harlequins."
Source: AFP
