Leinster confirm signing of Tuqiri on short-term deal

Leinster coach Matt O’Connor welcomes addition of former Australian international to his squad

New signing Lote Tuqiri pictured at Leinster training at UCD on Wednesday. Photograph: Stephen McCarthy/Sportsfile

Leinster have confirmed the signing of former Australia winger Lote Tuqiri on a short-term deal.

The 33-year-old played rugby league at international level for Australia before switching codes and making his international debut for the Wallabies against Ireland in the 46-16 victory in Perth in June 2003.

The Fijian-born player went on to win 67 caps for Australia between 2003 and 2008 and returned to play international rugby league for a second time.

Announcing the signing, Leinster coach Matt O’Connor said: “We are delighted to welcome a player of Lote’s calibre and his enthusiasm to make a positive impression at Leinster is exciting for both his new team-mates and supporters alike.

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“A consummate professional, Lote has an enormous wealth of experience in the game and we believe that he will play an important role in the squad over the coming weeks.”