Northampton Saints sign Fijian forward Api Ratuniyarawa from Agen
Tuesday 20 September 2016 10:26, UK
Northampton have signed Fiji international forward Api Ratuniyarawa from French club Agen.
The lock has played 70 times for Agen and has just embarked on his fourth season with them, but they have agreed to release him from his contract early so he can further his career in England.
Ratuniyarawa has made 19 appearances for Fiji, featuring in the 2015 World Cup, and he recently helped them win the Pacific Nations Cup.
At 6 feet, 6 inches tall and weighing in at 112kgs, the 30-year-old will pack a physical punch in the Saints' second row, and director of rugby Jim Mallinder is looking forward to seeing him in action in black, green and gold.
"Api is a strong, athletic, physical lock and he has the potential to make a big impact in the Aviva Premiership," he said.
"He has plenty of experience, both at international level and in the challenging environment of French club rugby, and we're looking forward to seeing what he can do at Franklin's Gardens."
Ratuniyarawa said: "I've enjoyed playing for Agen, which is a great club. But now I'm looking forward to the next part of my career in England.
"It is a decision which I have made as much for my family as for myself, and I am grateful to Northampton's coaches for giving me the opportunity.
"I know from my Fiji team-mate Campese Ma'afu that it is a great club and hopefully I can help the Saints achieve success in the Aviva Premiership."
