Harlequins sign former All Black Francis Saili

By Michael Cantillon

Image: Former Munster centre Francis Saili has signed a deal with Harlequins

All Black centre Francis Saili has signed a long-term deal with Harlequins, the club confirmed on Wednesday.

The 26-year-old spent the last two seasons playing for Munster in the PRO12, and previous to that enjoyed a three-year stint with the Blues in Super Rugby.

Having overcome a serious shoulder injury last season which kept him out for seven months, Saili had publicly stated a desire to remain with the Irish province, but his injury replacement, Springbok Jaco Taute, was rewarded a new contract instead, with Munster forced to choose between the pair due to the IRFU's succession policy.

Image: Saili earned two caps for the All Blacks in 2013

Munster's loss is Harlequins' gain, as director of rugby John Kingston confirmed his seventh signing ahead of the new season, after Demetri Catrakilis, Renaldo Bothma, Dave Lewis, Phil Swainston, Lewis Boyce and Josh McNulty.

"I am absolutely delighted to confirm that Francis is joining Harlequins on a long-term contract," Kingston said. "He is a high class, quality player who is comfortable at either 12 or 13.

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"Alongside his obvious talent, he will help balance the squad further by being available for us all season, which is just as important, given our ambitions as a club.

Image: Quins director of rugby John Kingston was delighted to announce the signing on a 'long-term contract' of unspecified length

"Francis is an extremely exciting signing who I know our fans will really enjoy watching."

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In 2013, Saili was capped twice by the All Blacks, debuting against Argentina in the Rugby Championship before facing Japan in Tokyo, while he also represented the Barbarians in 2014 in a match against Australia at Twickenham.

The pacey midfielder was also apart of the victorious All Black side which won the 2011 U20s World Championship, beating England in the final alongside Beauden Barrett, Brodie Retallick, Sam Cane, TJ Perenara and Charles Piutau.

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In two seasons with Munster, Saili registered nine tries in 40 games as they made it to the semi-final of the European Cup and final of the PRO12 last season after topping the regulation standings.

"It's been a privilege of mine to be part of Munster Rugby for the last two seasons, however, the opportunity that lies ahead to be a part of a prestigious club like Harlequins is a great honour," Saili added.

Image: Saili enjoyed a strong finish to last season with Munster after overcoming injury

"I'm looking forward to a new challenge in the Premiership under the direction of the coaches and alongside my new team. Harlequins has a rich heritage and strong tradition and I look forward to being part of an ongoing legacy.

"From my first conversation with John Kingston there was the reassurance needed for my partner and I that the move to Harlequins would be the step in the right direction going forward for my career overseas. I believe the influence of Harlequins as an organisation will continue to grow and improve my game."

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