Cornish Pirates have signed New Zealand-born centre Jordan Payne.
Aged 25, the Auckland-born player, who joins from top Japanese side NEC Green Rockets, has previously made appearances for both Waikato and the Chiefs in New Zealand.
📝NEW SIGNING 📝
The Cornish Pirates confirm that Kiwi centre Jordan Payne has signed a 2 year contract. Aged 25, the Auckland-born player, who joins from top Japanese side NEC Green Rockets, has previously made apps for Waikato & the Chiefs, New Zealandhttps://t.co/4hlu4oBPMp pic.twitter.com/R6hAQU33qX
— Cornish Pirates (@CornishPirates1) July 18, 2018
Jordan’s early rugby was played at age-group level in Auckland, before heading south to link up with Waikato for the 2014 ITM Cup. Also named as a member of the Chiefs development squad for the 2014 Super Rugby season, after impressing coaches he made his Super Rugby debut that year in a 22-16 win against Melbourne Rebels.
Cornish Pirates’ coach, Gavin Cattle, has spoken highly of the 6’ 2” addition to the squad, commenting:
Jordan arrives in Cornwall with a big pedigree, having performed within certain elite environments, namely both the Chiefs and Waikato in New Zealand and more recently with NEC Green Rockets in Japan.
A little different to what we already have, his experience will be of use plus he’ll provide versatility as a rangy and powerful centre. Also, importantly, he has an admirable personality that makes him a good addition to the squad.