Argentina's Rolando Martin yesterday became the latest international rugby union star to join ambitious English second division leaders Richmond.

The World Cup flanker, the 12th international on the west London club's books, is due to start his English career in the summer.

John Kingston, Richmond director of rugby, said of the American born 28 year old. "Rolando is one of the most respected flankers in the world.

"He had offers to join clubs in England and in the Southern Hemisphere, but his decision to come to us demonstrates our growing stature."

Martin, who won the first of his 26 caps against the United States three years ago, is expected to earn Richmond's going rate of £50,000 a season.