Reds re-sign Japanese star
The Reds have re-signed Japanese No.8 Hendrik Tui for the 2016 Super Rugby season.
Tui endured an injury-interrupted season in 2015 but earned two caps for the Reds in their final two games against the Chiefs and Waratahs which showed a glimpse of what he is capable of.
Born and raised in New Zealand, Tui moved to Japan as a 19-year-old where he played Rugby at Tokyo’s Teikyo University while studying Health Science.
Following university, he joined the Panasonic Wild Knights from 2011 to 2013, before making the move to Suntory Sungoliaths – where he continues to play for Japan in the Top League.
He has played 28 Tests for Japan since making his debut in 2012.
Tui said he was excited to return to the Reds in 2016, after finally realising his dream of playing Super Rugby this year.
"This season was a good opportunity to build experience for me and I know now heading into my second season with the Reds what's going on and what's expected of me," he said.
"I'm excited because I know I can play at that level and challenge myself even more."
Reds head coach Richard Graham said: "After a disjointed season through injury it is fantastic to have Hendrik [Tui] back in the programme for 2016. He is a quality guy and his contribution in the final two games off the bench was telling.
"Following a Rugby World Cup and another domestic season, we're confident he'll play a big part with the Reds. He made it very clear he wanted to return to Ballymore and be involved with the squad moving forward. With the expansion of Super Rugby and other options available, it says a lot about his character."
