Waldrom has been in discussions with Tigers for several weeks

Leicester Tigers have agreed to sign forward Thomas Waldrom for next season.

The back-rower, a long-term Tigers target, is currently with Hawkes Bay and playing Super 14 rugby with Crusaders in his native New Zealand.

"Thomas has done a very good job with the Crusaders in a competitive environment in New Zealand," said Tigers head coach Richard Cockerill.

Waldrom, 26, has also represented New Zealand Maori in the Churchill Cup and Pacific Nations Cup.

He will follow in the footsteps of fellow New Zealanders Aaron Mauger, Scott Hamilton and Daryl Gibson in playing at Welford Road.

Cockerill added: "He will provide another option for us in the back row."

Waldrom, who was Crusaders' Player of the Year in 2009, said: "I am really looking forward to joining the Tigers after my commitments with the Crusaders in the Super 14 are over.

"While the results and trophy cabinet speak for themselves, everyone I have spoken to can't speak highly enough about the structures, coaching and facilities in Leicester.

606: DEBATE Watched Waldron many times for and he is a great player and unfortunate not to make it to higher honours in NZ porridge_times

"Knowing that people I trust viewed the club in that light made my decision so much easier.

"While I still have a massive job to do here in Christchurch, the whole family is looking forward to the challenges moving to Leicester will bring."

Leicester are also in discussions with full-back Geordan Murphy and prop Julian White about extending their contracts.

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