The former England U21 and England Saxons hooker, joined London Irish in July 2008.

Buckland's performances during the 2009/10 campaign earned warm praise from coaches and teammates alike until his season was abruptly ended by a broken thumb in the Exiles' 23-13 win over Worcester Warriors in April 2010.

Buckland has made 80 appearances for London Irish scoring an outstanding try against Gloucester at the Madejski Stadium in the Aviva Premiership last season. An injury to David Paice in December 2010 meant that Buckland often played a full 80 minute match, a feat that is rarely done by any front row forward.

The 30-year-old, former London Wasps forward soon impressed as a mobile and dynamic competitor who contributes greatly in both defence and attack.

Buckland started his Premiership career at Leicester Tigers where he scored 12 tries and played in three league finals as well as the 2007 Heineken Cup Final. His experience of competing at the highest level has proved invaluable to London Irish during his 34 appearances at the club.