LEINSTER HAVE TODAY announced their latest southern hemisphere import in the form of Ben Te’o from, NRL side, the South Sydney Rabbitohs.
The New Zealand-born Samoan international will offer an inside centre option for head coach Matt O’Connor once the Rabbitohs second row completes the season in Australia this autumn.
“I was home during the summer and met with him a number of times,” O’Connor said in today’s statement He is keen and eager to make a lasting impression at Leinster and to develop into a world class rugby player.”
“He is a dynamic and explosive ball carrier and that physicality will enhance our offering both in attack and in our defence. I think the Leinster supporters are going to like what they see.”
For what it’s worth, here he is laying a hit on Sonny Bill Williams earlier this year.
With the Rabbitohs currnetly sitting second in the Premiership, 27-year-old Te’o says he is still fully focused on the business end of the NRL season in Australia.
“There is a lot of footy still to be played in this season and I owe it to Michael Maguire, his staff, and the rest of the players and of course the South’ Members and fans to focus all of my attention on those games starting this Thursday against the Broncos. There will be a time for farewells and thank yous when all is said and done.”