The Scottish-born star was part of the Waratahs squad that were crowned Super Rugby Champions last season and has 63 Super Rugby caps to his name.

He previously played for the Queensland Reds,and made his debut for the Waratahs in 2011.

He went on to become their first choice scrum half and scored 234 points for the side in 59 appearances.

Speaking about his decision to join the Exiles, McKibbin gushed: “I am delighted to be joining the Club. I spoke at length with Bob Casey and I am looking forward to be a part of the set up.

"The facilities are hugely impressive and I’m really excited by the direction the Club is looking to go in.” London Irish Operations Director Bob Casey added: “Brendan is a top class player and a real leader on and off the field. We have plenty of quality in the scrum half position and Brendan joining will only strengthen that competition.

"He has a great work rate, comes from a winning environment and knows what it takes to win trophies. We look forward to him being a key part of London Irish as we look to achieve bigger and better things.” It was announced last week that fellow scrum half Tomas O'Leary will leave the club at the end of the season to return to former side Munster.