Wallaby great George Smith signs with Toulon

Toulon may be facing the prospect of losing star Kiwi centre Sonny Bill Williams to his All Black ambitions, but have continued their restocking of talent for the 2010-11 season, signing Wallaby test centurion George Smith.

Smith agreed to a one-year deal to join the French club where he will team up with former All Black prop Carl Hayman, but possibly not Williams if he accepts the New Zealand Rugby Union's offer that is in front of him.

The 29-year-old Brumbies loose forward has 110 test caps for Australia, but has now retired from the international game. He has signed a one-year deal to join Toulon as they continue their quest to be the top club in France.

Smith will team up with Springbok flanker Joe van Niekerk and Pumas No 8 Juan Fernandez Lobbe in what should be an outstanding loose trio at the club.

Toulon reached the semifinals of the Top 14 before going down in extra time to Vern Cotter's Clermont. They also made the final of the European Challenge Cup before going down to Cardiff Blues.

Smith made more than 120 appearances for the Brumbies and ended his international career as the world's fifth most capped test player, as well as being the world's most capped loose forward and Australia's most capped forward.

- © Fairfax NZ News