Rugby: Connacht have announced the signing of Samoan centre Henry Fa'afili from Leeds Carnegie.
The former New Zealand Rugby League international has had spells with Biarritz and the Aviva Premiership side since switching codes in 2007.
“I’m really looking forward to joining Connacht in what is a very exciting time for both myself and the club,” the 31-year-old said today. “I’ve always wanted to experience the Magners League (RaboDirect PRO12) and with Connacht in the Heineken Cup next year it’s a great opportunity for me.
“I spoke to (defence coach) Mike Forshaw, who I know from my rugby league days, and he explained what Connacht were about and the great work that is going on there so I’m very excited about the move. Galway is a great city and myself and my fiancée are really looking forward to living there.”
Head coach Eric Elwood described Fa’afili as a “quality player with a proven track record with both Biarritz and Leeds”.
“He is a dynamic ball carrier with exceptional skill, strength and pace and we look forward to working with him, along with our other new signings, in the coming weeks.”
Fa’afili scored 400 points in seven years of Rugby League and was top scorer for Warrington Wolves in New Zealand in 2007 when touching down 22 times in 29 games.
