Romanian prop Ion signs for Irish

Ion made 23 appearances for Bath since joining in 2007

London Irish have signed Romanian international prop Paulica Ion from Bath for next season.

The 26-year-old has signed a two-year deal with the Reading-based side after two years playing in the West country.

Exiles head coach Toby Booth said: "The Bath pack is respected throughout the Premiership and Paulica has played a full part in that.

"He is an excellent scrummager and will be vital in providing a platform for us to play off next season."

Ion, who will be the first Romanian to play for the Exiles, has been capped 16 times for Romania since making his debut against Argentina during the 2003 Rugby World Cup.