[RELATED: Jarrad Waite joins North]

North Melbourne is pleased to announce it has secured former Bulldog Shaun Higgins as a restricted free agent.

Director of Football Geoff Walsh says the club is delighted to welcome Higgins.

“We are thrilled to welcome a player of Shaun’s calibre to North.”

“Shaun will add great flexibility to our team, as well as what he’ll bring to the group as a person.”

PRESS PLAY above to watch Shaun Higgins highlights | YouTube

The 26-year old was recruited by the Western Bulldogs in the 2005 AFL Draft, and has had stints as a forward, midfielder and defender over 129 games.

A Rising Star nominee in 2007, he has kicked 128 career goals, and joins Jarrad Waite in committing his future to North Melbourne.

North tabled its offer for Higgins on Friday morning and the Dogs confirmed later in the day they will not be matching it.

As compensation the Western Bulldogs will receive a second round pick (currently No.26), although that is subject to change should they pick up another player during the NAB AFL Free Agency Period.