Scarlets sign two-year deal with Tongan international lock Sione Timani – Rugby news
Llanelli based Welsh professional rugby union side, Scarlets, has announced the signing of the Tonga International lock, Sione Timani. Parc y Scarlets club has acquired the services of Timani after his impressive performance for the Tongan national rugby
union team in the recently concluded 2011 Churchill Cup.
Scarlets have confirmed the signing of Timani on a two-year deal in a statement released on their website on Tuesday, June 28. Before his new contract with the RaboDirect Pro 12’s outfit, Timani played for the Welsh Premiers Division side Carmarthen Quins.
Scarlets’ Head Coach, Nigel Davies, has welcomed the signing of the lock as he commented, “He's a great acquisition for us in terms of the balance of our pack, he's got a lot to bring, adding a different dimensions to our forwards - with plenty scope to
develop more from being within our set-up. We're confident that he will strengthen further as player once within our system.”
Davies has praised the skills and physical attributes of the 6 feet 5 inch tall lock Timani. He added, “Sione brings physicality and a real presence to our second row options and bulk which you need in the pack to complement what we have in our group already.
He's also shown he's very committed and loyal player and puts in the graft on the pitch and that he's looking to score tries as well.”
Timani, farther of two daughters, has expressed his delight on signing a contract with the Celtic League side. He said, “This is a great opportunity for me to play for such a respected and well-known club and I hope to fit in well with the group and the
players. They have a philosophy to give the younger developing players a chance, which appeals a lot to me. They play some great rugby and I'm looking forward to being part of the team."
The 26-year-old Timani is the brother of New South Wales Waratahs lock Sitaleki Timani. He has so far played three international games for Tonga since his debut against Japan in June 2008.
Timani is also expected to be named in the final 30-man Tongan squad for their 2011 Rugby World Cup campaign.
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