WORCESTER Warriors have confirmed the signing of Ireland international Donncha O'Callaghan.

The giant lock moves to Sixways after 17 seasons and over 270 competitive appearances with Irish province Munster.

O'Callaghan has represented Ireland 94 times along with four appearances for the British & Irish Lions.

During a glittering career to date, O'Callaghan won the Six Nations Grand Slam with Ireland in 2009 while also picking up two Heineken Cup titles and two Magners League titles with Munster.

He also captained the Lions in South Africa in 2009 and featured in three consecutive World Cups – the last of which in 2011 where he started in all of Ireland's matches.

He said: "I'm very grateful to Munster for all that they've done for me but now I'm hungry for my new challenge.

"The developments and structures in place at Warriors are very exciting but also the quality of management and the players at the Club are something I cannot wait to be a part of.

"I watched the Bristol game where Warriors turned it around in the last seven minutes at the end of last season, and that was really impressive.

"Now I'm looking to win the respect of the management, the players and most importantly, the supporters, and I will be giving my absolute all.”

The ex-Munster man also played for the Barbarians in their win over England in 2014, when Dean Ryan was head coach.

Off the field, O'Callaghan is also an Ambassador for UNICEF Ireland.

Warriors director of rugby Dean Ryan said: "The opportunity to bring someone in with such international and European experience is a real coup for the Club.

"It's important to get a balance of proven and experienced performers and young developing talent integrated within the squad.

"Donncha has tremendous know-how at the highest level and will be able to offer our younger players a great deal of advice.

"His experience and leadership can only be of benefit to the team as we prepare for life in the Aviva Premiership.”