The proposed transfers of Jamie Heaslip and Sean O'Brien to Toulon last year were highly public. When Leinster and the IRFU tied them down to new contracts it was seen as a big win for Leinster's pulling power over the French giants.
But it seems that Toulon have had several victories over Leinster too. Wallaby winger Drew Mitchell is preparing for Toulon's Champions Cup final next weekend, but he could just as easily have been on the losing side in that tense semi-final.
Drew Mitchell came to the conclusion in 2013 that it was time to move on from Australian rugby. At the same time, Leinster were looking for a back three star that could replace the massive void that was being left behind by the retirement of Isa Nacewa.
Speaking about his decision now, Mitchell credits his final decision to his good friend Matt Giteau and the more attractive climate that the south of France has over Ireland.
I pretty quickly narrowed my focus down to just one or two clubs and it basically came down to Leinster and Toulon. So there were many factors that came into it for me when I talked to the two clubs. The comfort of having my best mate Matt Giteau here was important.
Also the climate was a factor. I'm a pretty well-known whinger when it's cold so I'm not sure if I would have been too good in the team environment when it came to winter time!
Giteau and Mitchell will be aiming to help Toulon to achieve three European titles in a row. Both are also two of the three newly eligible overseas players for the Australian national squad after the rules for Australian players were relaxed.
Photo Credit Stephen McCarthy/Sportsfile
