Wasps lure Leiua from 'Canes

Alapati Leiua has decided to swap the gold of the Hurricanes for the gold of the Wasps as another high profile player exits the southern hemisphere.

 

Leiua, a Samoan international who can play centre and wing, has been a standout for the Wellington side in this years Super Rugby campaign.

 

The big ball carrying back made his Test debut for Samoa in the victory over Scotland in Durban in June 2013, and toured with Samoa on their end of year trip to Europe.

 

“We have been really impressed with what we have seen of Alapati and he will add power and pace to our backline options," Said London Wasps Director of Rugby, Dai Young.

 

"We have identified the type of players we need to add to the side and he fits the bill very well.

 

"He is powerful, has good feet and knows where the try line is, and I am sure he will make a big impact here.”

 

Leiua is another big name from this years Super Rugby season who is heading North after Chiefs centre Bundee Aki signed with Pro12 side Connacht.

 

“After considering a number of options the decision to join London Wasps was made easy after meeting with Dai Young and hearing his vision for the future of the Club," Leiua said.

 

"I am very excited to be playing in the Premiership next season and look forward to contributing to the success of London Wasps.”

 

Leiua becomes the sixth high-profile signing for next season for the Wasps, after the announcements that Bradley Davies, James Gaskell, Rob Miller, Lorenzo Cittadini and Ruaridh Jackson will be joining the men in black and gold.