Falcons land Chiefs lock

 

An imposing physical presence, standing just short of two metres and weighing in at 114kgs, Thompson is regarded as an analytical and skilful line out leader and will bring a wealth of experience from Super Rugby and International rugby

 

He has been capped 28 times for Samoa.

 

Primarily a second row, he has also played with distinction at number eight during his three seasons at French club U.S. Dax and will add further versatility to the Falcons options in the pack.

 

His career to date shows a player who quickly becomes an integral part of his club squads, his Super 15 careers with the Highlanders and the Chiefs and his European spell with U.S. Dax all showing a high number of appearances and starts.

 

Thompson has also distinguished himself on the international stage after opting to represent Samoa ahead of the 2007 Rugby World Cup.

 

Qualifying for the Pacific Island nation through his Grandmother’s heritage, he has featured in two of the IRB’s showpiece tournaments and also made a try scoring contribution to his country’s landmark win against Australia in 2011.

 

“Kane is a proven operator at the highest levels of rugby in the Southern Hemisphere and has down very well internationally for Samoa,"  Director of Newcastle Rugby Dean Richards said about his latest capture.

 

“We have really liked what we have seen of him and expect that the supporters will too and fully anticipate he will repeat what he has done all the way throughout his career and establish himself as a key member of the squad.”