Harlequins sign Fiji star Natani Talei until end of season

Harlequins have signed Fiji back-row Natani Talei until the end of the season.

Quins coach Conor O’Shea has seen his back-row resources hit by the departure of Nick Easter and Chris Robshaw to England duty, and Talei, who has won 28 international caps, will give him an extra option.

Talei, 31, can play at No 8 or as a blindside flanker, and he has experience in British domestic rugby with Worcester, Edinburgh and Newport Gwent Dragons.

He has been without a club since being released by the Dragons in October last year and he has been recovering from a foot injury.

O’Shea told the club’s website: “With international call ups and the squad stretched, Netani, who is vastly experienced and explosive, has come in and made an instant impression with everyone.

“He is a true professional in everything he does and we are delighted we have been able to extend his stay until the end of the season at the very least.”

Talei said: “This opportunity is a blessing for me and I’m so happy to be back playing after recovering from injury, especially for one of the top teams in both the UK and Europe.

“I’m looking forward to getting as much game time as possible for the rest of the season with Harlequins.”