Leicester Tigers have confirmed the immediate signing of hooker Richie Asiata, who is 30 years old.
Asiata brings significant experience of Super Rugby, having played for the Queensland Reds. He has also represented Northland and Tasman in the NPC. The Samoan international has represented his country twice this summer and is in their squad for the upcoming Nations Cup campaign.
Parling welcomes new hooker
Tigers head coach Geoff Parling said: “Richie brings top level experience with over 50 Super Rugby caps to a position of need.”
Parling added: “He’s hungry for the chance to prove himself in the PREM, and we welcome him, Leilani and Lior to Tigers.”
Asiata excited by new challenge
Asiata said he is excited to have joined the club. “This is a new opportunity for me on this side of the world. I’ve played in Australia for a while, so it’s pretty exciting to try something new.”
He has already spoken to former Tigers team-mates James O’Connor, Ben Volavola and Izaia Perese, who told him about the history of the club. “The fans are unreal, it’s pretty crazy at home games,” Asiata said.
He added: “I’m really happy to get involved, I can’t wait to get to know the boys, the fans and the culture.”