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Sale Sharks have signed prop Halani Aulika from relegated London Irish
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The 32-year-old Tongan has spent four seasons with the Exiles
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He featured for Auckland and Otago in New Zealand and also played once for Super Rugby side Highlanders
Sale Sharks have completed the signing of Tongan prop Halani Aulika from relegated London Irish for the 2016/17 season.
The 32-year-old – who has been with the Exiles for the past four years – will help offset the loss of popular forward Vadim Cobilas, who is moving to Bordeaux-Begles.
Aulika is the second tighthead prop brought in by Sale boss Steve Diamond following the earlier capture of Kieran Longbottom from Saracens.
Standing at 6ft 3ins and weighing more than 19 stone, Aulika hugely impressed in both of Irish’s league games against Sale this season and Diamond had been tracking his availability all year ahead of next season.
“I have been watching Aulika all season and when his agent got in touch I didn’t hesitate in signing him,” said Sale’s Director of Rugby Steve Diamond.
“He is a great scrummager and puts himself about on the pitch. I am sure he will be a big asset for us next season and beyond.”
Sale have also announced that England Under-18 internationals and twin brothers Tom and Ben Curry have signed their first professional contracts with the club.