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Rugby Union

Worcester sign Aussie Latham

18/12/2007

Guinness Premiership side Worcester Warriors have confirmed the signing of former Australia full-back Chris Latham on a two-year deal.

The 78-cap veteran, who is the second highest try-scorer in Australian rugby union history behind David Campese, retired from the international game following the quarter-final defeat to England at the 2007 Rugby World Cup.

At 32, Latham is coming into the twilight of his distinguished career, however Warriors director of rugby Mike Ruddock still views him as "the world's best full-back".

"We're absolutely delighted that Chris Latham has decided to join us at Worcester Warriors," Ruddock said.

"We've made no secret of the fact that we want to strengthen the team through the acquisition of world class players and by grooming our own young players through our academy structure.

"With the arrival of Chris Latham and the re-signing of [academy product] Chris Pennell it shows we are determined to develop both strategies."

Latham confirmed he would move to Worcester with his family after playing professional rugby in Australia for the past ten years.

"My family and I are really looking forward to moving to Worcester, I am very excited about playing in the Guinness Premiership for the Warriors," Latham said.

"I have enjoyed a wonderful decade of rugby with the Queensland Reds and the Wallabies.

"At this stage of my life and career I feel it the right time for both my family and I to experience new things and to give myself fresh and challenging goals, as I know I am yet to play my best rugby."