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The Waratahs have confirmed the signing of Wales and British and Irish Lions international Jamie Roberts on a one-year injury coverage contract for the 2022 season.
Roberts, who signed for the Stormers a few years ago only to see his time with the Cape Town-based outfit cut short due to the arrival of the coronavirus pandemic, was capped 94 times by Wales and also made three Lions Test appearances.
The Welsh centre says he is excited for the change of scenery in Australia.
"I'm really excited to join the Waratahs. The adventure of playing in a new competition in a different country outside my comfort zone excites me." Roberts said.
"As my Sydney-born partner is expecting our second child in March, we feel the best decision for our family is to be surrounded by her support network in Sydney.
"On the rugby front, I'm looking to hit the ground running, get up to speed quickly, perform on the pitch and help drive success.
"Hopefully I can impart some of my knowledge and insight to the talented youngsters on the team, keep improving as a player and keep developing as a person for what may come after."
The arrival of Roberts comes after the Waratahs lost promising centre Joey Walton to an ACL injury during pre-season training.
Waratahs head coach Darren Coleman was thrilled to add a player of the caliber and experience of Roberts to his roster.
"Losing two of our centres in Joey Walton and Mosese Tuipulotu was a big blow as we view them as the future of the side. So, to be able to bring in a player with the experience and talent that Jamie has on an injury coverage contract is huge for us," Coleman said.
"Jamie has been playing at a consistently high level with Dragons in Wales this season and adds a really big body for go forward and is very sound defensively. He adds vital depth in our midfield and will complement the mix of players we currently have.
"Off the field he will also add a lot to the group and our team culture with his professionalism and experience."
