Quins looking up with All Blacks great

Harlequins have boosted their chances of a quick return to the Zurich Premiership by signing Andrew Mehrtens, the All Blacks outside-half who has scored a staggering 967 points in Test rugby.

The 32-year-old New Zealander has agreed a two-year deal and will join the club at the end of July. Quins, relegated last season, have already appointed former England No8 Dean Richards as director of rugby.

Mehrtens, who has won 70 caps for the Kiwis, said: "Whether I had been selected to play against the Lions or not, I have reached a time where I am seeking new challenges.

"I am looking forward to helping Quins achieve their aim of becoming one of the top teams in Europe."

Mark Evans, the Quins chief executive, said: "We are absolutely delighted. He will give us the direction and experience at No10 we have been looking for." Lions centre, and future team-mate, Will Greenwood said: "He is a fantastic player and it's tremendous news for everyone at Quins."

In addition to Mehrtens, Quins have also signed former Newport-Gwent Dragons hooker James Richards, prop Ricky Nebbett, who used to play for the club, ex-Saracens prop Aston Croall and scrum-half Ian Vaas, who has played for Northampton and Stade Francais.