Waratahs sign Japanese Sevens international
TRANSFER NEWS: The Waratahs have made another addition to their Super Rugby squad, securing the signature of damaging outside-back, Siosifa Lisala on a one-year deal.
Lisala arrives in Sydney from Toyota Industries Corporation in Japan’s Top Challenge League, having previously worked with Rob Penney during his time at the club.
Originally hailing from Tonga, Lisala represented the island-nation at Under-23 level before switching allegiances to Japan and making his way through their university system.
Another signing secured for 2020 ✍️
Welcome to New South Wales, Siosifa!
📰 https://t.co/ynvOidBAfg#ForTheLoveOfRugby💙🏉 pic.twitter.com/rRr6oPyyvx
— NSW Waratahs (@NSWWaratahs) January 23, 2020
Lisala has since amassed 90 caps at Sevens competitions, scoring more than 50 tries for the Cherry Blossoms.
Lisala is expected to arrive in Sydney in late-January following the completion of the Top Challenge League, with the versatile back to take up the international spot in the Waratahs squad.
Waratahs head coach, Rob Penney said that when he became aware that Lisala was interested in testing himself in Super Rugby he didn’t hesitate in bringing him to NSW.
“Siosifa has a fantastic skill-set, he can play right across the backline and most importantly he’s a good team man who understands what we’re trying to build here at the Waratahs,” Penney said.
“He already knows the system of play we’re implementing and will come in ready to go off the back of his season with Shokki.
“I’ve got no doubt he’ll fit into the group really well, adding depth to our backline and another dimension to our attack with his damaging ball running – he’s a phenomenal athlete.
“Siosifa has all the attributes we’re looking for, he’s got runs on the board at international level and I think he’ll be a really exciting addition to our squad.”
Lisala said he was excited about linking up with Penney once again and couldn’t wait to get started in 2020.
“Rob is a coach I enjoyed working with [in Japan] and when we spoke about coming to the Waratahs it was an easy decision,” Lisala said.
“He likes to play an aggressive, attacking style of rugby which is really appealing to me.
“The Waratahs are a famous club in Australian rugby and I’m excited to arrive and get started ahead of the new season.”
