London Irish have confirmed the signing of New Zealand winger Waisake Naholo ahead of their return to the Premiership next season.
The Exiles have been splashing the cash since securing promotion from the Championship, with Allan Dell, Curtis Rona, Nick Phipps, Sekope Kepu and Paddy Jackson having all been confirmed as joining the Reading-based oufit.
Irish have now opened the cheque book again to sign Naholo, who will move to England after his commitments with New Zealand end, presumably following the Rugby World Cup if the wing is selected by head coach Steve Hansen.
The 28-year-old has 16 tries in 26 games for the All Blacks, while at club level he will leave Super Rugby side Highlanders as the franchise’s all-time leading try scorer, with 41 in 58 appearances. “Following a great career with the All Blacks, Highlanders and Taranaki, I am excited by the challenge of joining London Irish,” said Naholo. “London Irish is a team on the up and has an exciting future.
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There is plenty of ambition, a world-class training facility, a good group of coaches and players and some exciting signings coming in.
The supporters have a great reputation as well and I’m looking forward to it.” London Irish director of rugby Declan Kidney added: “Waisake is a top-class player who will bring great experience with him which we hope he can pass on to our younger players as they continue their development with us.”
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