Leicester Tigers have kicked off their preparations for the 2024/25 Gallagher Premiership season with a bang, announcing THREE exciting additions to their squad.
The trio includes the arrival of two prominent international talents.
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#1. Nicky Smith
The Wales international prop has made more than 170 appearances for the Osprey’s in his professional career to date to go with his 47 international caps for Wales.
A front-rower with an eye for the try line, Smith put in an eye-catching performance for Ospreys against Tigers at Mattioli Woods Welford Road early last year, giving supporters a taste of what’s to come from Smith in a Leicester jersey.
Nicky Smith said: “I’m very excited to be joining Leicester tigers next season.”
“It’s a club which is filled with history and ambition. There have been many world-class players that have worn the famous Tigers jerseys and I’m honoured to get the opportunity to play for one of the biggest clubs in the World.
“I’m looking forward to be running out to the electric atmosphere at Mattioli Woods Welford Road”.
Leicester Tigers general manager, Richard Wilks said: “I was struck by Nicky’s enthusiasm to join Leicester Tigers and his knowledge of our club and previous positive experiences of playing at Mattioli Woods Welford Road, going back many years to playing against Tigers Academy for Wales junior representative teams, really stood out.
“His rugby ability speaks for itself but him wanting to be part of the home team at our home ground with the crowd behind him really resonated.
“We look forward to welcoming Nicky, Kirsty and their boys in July and I’m sure the supporters will take him to their hearts quickly.”
#2. Corné Beets
Tigers have announced Junior Springbok of the Year Corné Beets has signed with the club on a long-term deal.
Beets, 20, is considered one of the best prospects in South African rugby having been a standout performer wearing the number eight jersey for his country in last year’s U20 World Championships, scoring a try in the third-place playoff against England.
Beets played his schools rugby at Paarl Gymnasium in the Western Cape province of South Africa, the same school as future teammate, double-World Cup winner Handré Pollard.
Corné Beets said: “The incredible opportunity to become a member of the prestigious Leicester Tigers family excites me. “
“It is an honour and a privilege to bring my enthusiasm and expertise to this legendary club, and I am eager to take on the challenges that lie ahead while creating lifelong memories with my teammates and the amazing Leicester Tigers supporters.
“I'm excited to fully immerse myself in Leicester's rich culture and becoming a proud member of the community.”
#3. Izaia Perese
Born and raised in Brisbane, Perese ,26, broke through at the Queensland Reds, earning a callup to the national team as a teenager.
After stints the Brisbane Broncos in the National Rugby League and Bayonne in France, Perese joined the NSW Waratahs ahead of the 2021 Super Rugby season, and quickly became one of the most exciting and devastating attackers in the competition.
An international debut would come in 2022, Perese then earning a spot in the Wallabies Rugby World Cup squad late last year.
Izaia Perese said: “My family and I are very excited to move to the UK and join Leicester Tigers.”
“I am looking forward to embracing Leicester’s rugby culture and contribute to the club's legacy.
“We can’t wait for the journey ahead and the chance to create lasting connections with the lads & the community.”
Leicester Tigers general manager, Richard Wilks said: “We can’t wait to welcome Izaia and his young family to Leicester. “
“We set out to add a player with pace and power and we certainly feel we’ve done that.
“He’s a player that gets you out of your seat and I’ve no doubt our supporters will enjoy watching him play in a Tigers shirt.”
