THE void at fly half left by the departures of Thierry Lacroix and Matt Leek was filled this week when Saracens signed Duncan McRae from Super 12 side New South Wales Waratahs.

McRae becomes the third new Saracens signing for next season, following those of French international Thomas Castaignde and Australian double World Cup winner Tim Horan, in what promises to be a frightening back line.

McRae, who joined up with his new colleagues at pre-season training this week, said: 'I'm looking forward to playing in England and Saracens' squad is of the highest quality.

'The chance to play in between Kyran Bracken and Tim Horan is worth the 27 hour flight on its own.'

The 25-year-old Australian had a three-year stint in rugby league, playing for Canterbury Bulldogs and London Broncos, and is also capable of playing full back.

The new number ten was recommended to Saracens' director of rugby Alain Zondagh by Horan.

Zondagh said: 'When Tim Horan came over last month, we talked about our requirements for fly half and he agreed that Duncan was the man.

'We viewed the Super 12 tapes of the last few seasons and liked what we saw. He has a very quick turn of speed and a good rugby brain. Needless to say that with his rugby league experience, his defence is fearless.'

Saracens began their pre-season training this week at Bramley Road, Southgate, with those involved in recent internationals given an extra week to recuperate.

Next week the squad travels to Biarritz, France, for a week long training camp, including a beach fives competition organised by former Saracens legend Phillipe Sella.

Thomas Castaignde, who teams up with his new Saracens team-mates at a training camp in south France next week, returns to his former club, Toulouse, in the first round of Heineken Cup matches next season.

Sarries were this week drawn in pool three with Welsh champions Cardiff, 1999 Heineken Cup winners Ulster and Toulouse, who Castaignde helped win the European title in 1996.

The French international full back, signed from Castres in May, joins up with Saracens in Biarritz for a training camp. And Castaignde will not have to wait long before returning to his home country again with Saracens for the clash against Toulouse, to be played on October 6th, 7th or 8th.

In the two weeks following, Sarries entertain Ulster and Cardiff respectively, with the three remaining group games played after Christmas.

Sarries lock Kris Chesney has signed a new two-year contract with the Vicarage Road club.

Chesney joined Saracens in 1994 and made his debut against Gloucester in the same year. His ability to play anywhere in the back five has meant he has become a valuable member of the squad.

He said: 'The coming season is going to be really exciting, and I'm glad I'll be taking part in a Saracens shirt again.'