Jump to Main ContentJump to Primary Navigation
leicestertigers.comMattioli Woods Welford RoadContact UsTopps Tiles
News

Kalamafoni confirmed as Tigers signing

Figure image
Tonga international back-rower Sione Kalamafoni has agreed a move to Leicester Tigers from Gloucester Rugby.

The 29-year-old Kalamafoni has spent five seasons with Gloucester and has played in two World Cup tournaments with Tonga.
 
Tigers head coach Matt O’Connor, who spent time coaching with Tonga last year, said: “Sione is a strong and powerful ball-carrier from the back row. That physical presence on both sides of the ball is something we have been looking to add to our squad and he comes into a very competitive back-row group with us. We’re looking forward to his arrival in pre-season.”
 
Kalamafoni made more than 100 appearances for Gloucester after moving from Nottingham in 2012/13. He was the Season Ticket Holders’ Player of the Season in his first season at Kingsholm in 2012/13 and then in 2015/16 he was named Players' Player of the Season and Coaches' Player of the Season.
 
After starting three games for Tonga in their 2011 World Cup campaign, including a man-of-the-match performance in the win over France, he started all four games in the pool stages in 2015, including the fixture against Argentina played in Leicester.
 
Kalamafoni said: “I have had five enjoyable seasons with Gloucester but it is now time for a new challenge in my career and I’m delighted to be able to sign for Leicester Tigers. It is obviously a big club with a lot of history and I’m looking forward to playing my part there.”