Leicester Tigers have confirmed the immediate signing of hooker Richie Asiata, who is 30 years old.
Asiata brings significant Super Rugby experience, having played for the Queensland Reds. He has also represented Northland and Tasman in the NPC. The Samoa international has represented his country twice this summer and is in their squad for the upcoming Nations Cup campaign.
Club Welcomes New Signing
Director of rugby Geoff Parling praised the addition, saying, “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 for New Challenge
Asiata said he is excited to join the club. “I’m excited to have signed for Tigers. 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 said he has already spoken with former Tigers players James O’Connor, Ben Volavola and Izaia Perese, who told him about the club’s history. “The fans are unreal, it’s pretty crazy at home games,” Asiata said.
Asiata added that he is looking forward to settling in. “I’m really happy to get involved, I can’t wait to get to know the boys, the fans and the culture.”