Muliaina makes his way to Zebre

 

The 34-year-old became the first ever All Black to play at Connacht when he signed with the Irish province last summer as a player-mentor. The full back has started in nine of his ten appearances for Connacht this season in both the Pro12 and European Challenge Cup.

 

Speaking about the effect Muliaina had at Connacht, Head Coach Pat Lam:

 

"Even in one quick year, Mils has made a lasting contribution to Connacht Rugby. His influence on and off the field with our young squad has been invaluable and I know the players, particularly the backs, have benefited from his vast experience. A big part of our growth as a team this season has been around challenging each other to reach higher standards and Mils was massive in driving this.

 

"He has really embraced the Connacht culture and he's made a big effort to get out amongst the community and I know the supporters have enjoyed meeting and getting to know him.   

 

"For me personally it was fantastic to have the opportunity to work with him again and on behalf of everyone, I'd like to thank Mils and wish him all the best in Italy and with Zebre."

 

Zebre Rugby team manager Andrea De Rossi said: "I think there's no real need to introduce Muliaina, a symbol of rugby itself who took part in three World Cups. I believe that with his immense experience across the back line he will be a significant contributor to the growth of many young players in our squad”.

 

Mils Muliaina said that he is looking forward to his move to Italy to join Zebre. "I have always been a big believer of passing my knowledge and experience of the game on to other up and coming rugby players.  With the experience I have had playing in Milan and Rome with the All Blacks, I know the Italians are very passionate about rugby in their country.

 

"Joining Zebre allows me to maintain the appetite I have to succeed as a rugby player. After chatting to Brendon [Leonard] about his time in Zebre I am looking forward to an exciting season ahead."