Quins would like to announce the signing of Tongan International, Epi Taione, who joins us from Super 14 side, Natal Sharks.

Epi played his rugby in the United Kingdom for the English Premiership sides Newcastle and Sale Sharks. Since then, he has been playing for the Japanese side Sanyo Wild Knights, and Tonga's national team, in last year's Rugby World Cup. Following that he made the move to South Africa, to join the Natal Sharks in their 2008 Super 14 campaign.

Weighing in at 120kg and standing at 1.93m tall, Epi is not only gifted with power and strength, he also combines it with speed and mobility.

Epi will be a valuable new asset to the Quins squad and joins us towards the end of July.

Director of Rugby, Dean Richards, says:

“Epi is an extremely versatile player, capable of playing at the top level in the forwards, at 6 and 8, and also in the backs, at 11, 13 and 14. He is an extremely strong and powerful player, and his ability will serve us well. I am looking forward to welcoming him into the squad towards the end of July.”

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