Exeter Chiefs and England A star Rusi Tuima will add his considerable physical presence to Newcastle Red Bulls’ forward pack in the summer when he arrives on a two-year deal.
The 6 foot 5 second or back-rower has scored 20 tries in 74 games for the Chiefs, with the Fijian-born forward moving to the UK at four years of age and coming through Exeter’s academy.
Scoring 20 tries in 73 games for the Devon-based side, Tuima has also represented England at Under-18s, 20s and ‘A’ levels, and is renowned for his uncompromising physicality.
Newcastle Red Bulls sporting general manager Neil McIlroy said: “Rusi has a well-deserved reputation around the Gallagher PREM as somebody who loves the physical aspects of the game.
“He has got a big frame which he uses to good effect, and I’m sure our supporters will enjoy his ball-carrying and big hits.
“He has come through the national pathway and earned his England A cap last season, and it’s great that he sees Newcastle as a stage where he can really push on and achieve his personal ambitions.”
Tuima said: “I’m hugely excited to rip into what the Newcastle Red Bulls have already started building. It’s such an exciting project. Newcastle is always a tough place to come and play, so I’m looking forward to adding to that.
“Whilst I’m looking forward to calling Newcastle home and getting stuck in at Kingston Park, I’m also incredibly grateful to the Exeter Chiefs players, coaches and supporters for providing the amazing opportunities to represent my boyhood club – memories that I and my family will cherish forever.”
RUSI TUIMA BIOG
Position: Lock/back-row
Born: 21/5/2000
Height: 1.95m (6 foot 5)
Weight: 128kg (20 stone 2)
Honours: England A