Scotland's Blair Cowan pens new London Irish deal SCOTLAND flanker Blair Cowan has signed a new deal with London Irish, keeping him at the Premiership club until 2018. The 28-year-old back-row forward has made 32 appearances for the Exiles since arriving at the club in March 2013, scoring seven tries in the process. Cowan made his debut for Scotland on the North American tour last summer, and has won six caps overall. He told the BBC: "I've enjoyed my time so far at London Irish and was stoked to extend that by a further two seasons. London Irish has opened doors to international rugby and I believe the club will constantly improve my game. There are exciting times ahead for London Irish and I'm keen to be a part of that. Brian Smith, London Irish's director of rugby praised Cowan's efforts since signing for the Reading-based club, adding that the new deal was a reward for his form. Smith said: "His work ethic in training and on the park sets a great example and he is fast becoming a real leader in the squad. He has made the step up to international rugby seamlessly and fully deserves to be playing at that level. Glenn Delaney, London Irish forwards coach added: "Blair has all the defensive and attacking attributes a coach is looking for in an openside flanker. He carries strongly, defends well and is fantastic over the ball. He is a player who is continually developing and one we believe can keep getting better. Cowan was born in Wellington, New Zealand, but qualifies for Vern Cotter's squad through his Argyll-born mother.