GREENE King IPA Championship table-toppers London Irish have strengthened their back row with the signing of Tongan international Tevita Koloamatangi until the end of the season.

The powerhouse No. 8, who has three caps for his country, becomes the sixth Pacific Islander at Exiles, having helped them to victory against Italy, USA and Spain during the autumn tests.

Koloamatangi said: “I’m really thankful and blessed to have the opportunity to come to London Irish. I always wanted to experience rugby over here and this move has given me a chance of doing that, so I want to make the most of this fantastic opportunity.

“Everyone has been very friendly and welcoming from the moment I walked into the club and it has helped me settle.

“The fact that Ofisa Treviranus, Aseli Tikoirotuma and Senitiki Nayalo are all here has made the transition very easy for me and I’m looking forward to showing what I can do on the pitch.”

The 28-year-old played for provincial side Tasman Makos before his fine form secured him a move to Super Rugby outfit the Gallagher Chiefs in 2014.

He made nine appearances for the Chiefs, including last year’s stunning 40-7 win against Wales, the first time a New Zealand Super Rugby franchise had defeated an international team.

Exiles Director of Rugby Nick Kennedy added: “I’m very pleased to welcome Tevita to London Irish and I’m keen to see what he can bring to the team as we enter the latter stages of the season. He brings international and Super Rugby experience to the club, and he will undoubtedly bolster our back-row options.”

Meanwhile, scrum half Darren Allinson will join Premiership club Bath at the end of the season.

Allinson, 29, joined the Exiles from Cardiff Blues in 2010 and has made more than 130 appearances for the club.

He spent a short-term loan at Bath before Christmas, and the Welshman has now penned permanent terms with the West Country outfit.

Allinson commented: “I’ve really enjoyed my time at London Irish, a club that holds many great memories for me.

“I’m fully committed to helping Irish gain promotion back to the Premiership, which is my sole focus at present.”

Kennedy added: “Darren has been a great servant to London Irish and I would like to thank him for his contribution during his seven seasons with the club.

Irish – whose place in the play-offs was confirmed due to other results last weekend – return to action when they host fellow Exiles outfit London Scottish on Saturday (3pm).