Bay of Plenty hooker Aleki Lutui is joining Worcester Warriors. The 28-year-old has penned a two-year deal and will arrive at Sixways in early September.
The Tongan international, a former police officer, has been a talismanic figure for his club and country, and in Super 14, and will complete Warriors’ recruitment for the forthcoming Guinness Premiership season.
“He fits the mould of hookers that we employ, in as much as he’s a big physical character,” said Warriors’ Director of Rugby John Brain. “As a player, he’ll give us an option as a ball carrier and in defence as a hitter.
“He’s a hooker who’s played a fair bit of rugby at prop. He’s also got good leadership skills. He’s captained Tonga on a number of occasions.
“We’re very happy to get a player of that quality into the squad. He has the potential to make a big impact on the squad.”
Factfile
Position: Hooker
Height: 6ft 1in / 1.85m
Weight: 17st 8lbs / 113kg
Born: July 1, 1978