Mako Vunipola joins Leicester Tigers after considering retirement

Former England prop Mako Vunipola has signed with the Leicester Tigers following a conversation with head coach Geoff Parling that prompted the 35-year-old to reverse his plans to retire. Vunipola spent the last two years playing in France with Vannes after departing Saracens. Parling, a former teammate of Vunipola, recruited the front-rower to provide experience and leadership for the Tigers' pack. The club is currently managing the physical workload of their new signing, who recently made his debut in a Prem Cup match against Harlequins. Despite his return to the Premiership, Vunipola stated he has no intention of pursuing an international comeback to add to his 79 England caps. He remains focused on his role with the East Midlands club for the current campaign.

• 9:37 AMYahoo Sports — Vunipola was set to retire before Leicester move
• 9:37 AMBBC Sport — Prop Vunipola set to retire before Leicester move