Back-rower Jordan Taufua, who earned his first call-up with the All Blacks in 2018, is to join Leicester Tigers next season.
A former Under-20s cap with both Samoa and New Zealand, Taufua played against the British and Irish Lions with the Crusaders in 2017 and also represented the Barbarians before being called into the All Blacks squad last year.
Noted for his physicality in the back-row positions, the 27-year-old has more than 80 appearances in Super Rugby since 2013 as well as playing club rugby with Tasman, Canterbury and Counties Manukau.
Ahead of the opening round of the new Super Rugby season next weekend, Taufua confirmed his agreed move to Tigers and said: “I am very excited to be joining the Leicester Tigers after the Rugby World Cup this year. I have taken time to learn about the history of the club and it will be an honour to be a part of such a storied rugby programme.
“I see a lot of similarities between the Tigers and the Crusaders, and I am fully bought-in to the vision that Geordan Murphy and his staff have for the team. I am looking forward to playing in front of the club’s amazing fans at Welford Road later this year.”
Tigers head coach Geordan Murphy added: “Jordan is a very physical and powerful player schooled in the best traditions of back-row play in New Zealand. He has extensive experience in Super Rugby with the Crusaders and we look forward to welcoming him to Welford Road in the new season.”
