Simon Clarke swaps Orica-GreenEdge for Cannondale-Garmin for 2016

Cannondale-Garmin have announced another major signing to their roster for 2016, as Simon Clarke joins the American team from Orica-GreenEdge.

Clarke joined the WorldTour in 2011 with Astana, but after one season moved to his native team Orica where he has spent the last three years.

The Australian confirmed he would be leaving the team at the end of 2015, but it was only announced on Thursday that he would be joining the likes of Rigoberto Uran, Pierre Rolland, Lawson Craddock and Ryan Mullen as one of Cannondale's new signings.

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“There is a really balanced feel about the team with a nice blend of super talented emerging riders complementing those with greater experience," Clarke said.

"I’m very excited to have an opportunity to play my role in the development and future successes of Cannondale-Garmin. I like its vision and feel riding for Cannondale-Garmin will give me fresh opportunities not only for myself, but to help the team achieve its goals.”

the 29-year-old's career highlights include a stage win at the Vuelta a España in 2012 along with King of the Mountains classification. Clarke also wore the leader's jersey at the Giro d'Italia this year, as well being part of two team time trial winning squads at the Tour de France and the Giro.

“Simon has excellent experience and is a very good road captain," team manager Jonathan Vaughters said.

"He has the ability to help guide some of our younger riders and is capable of great achievements himself. He will be a fantastic addition to the team.”