The Melbourne Rebels have signed up English fly-half Danny Cipriani for the expansion club's debut season in the Super 15 next year.

His English club, Wasps released a statement saying the 22-year-old was leaving "with the club's understanding and support".

Cipriani made his debut for England in 2008 and has played seven Tests.

His decision almost certainly kills off his hopes of playing in the 2011 World Cup after England manager Martin Johnson said he would not select him if he moved to the southern hemisphere.

"I have been given no indication that I am pushing for a place with England at the moment so it is up to me to ensure I am in contention in the future by challenging myself in new realms," Cipriani said in a statement.

"I have some of the best coaches and players in the game around me at Wasps, which is why it has been so hard to make my decision, but I am still young enough to go away and experience something completely different.

"I want to be the best player I can be and this is a huge challenge and opportunity to test myself, on and off the pitch, because it will be changing everything I know."

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