Api Ratuniyarawa joins Irish

London Irish can confirm the signing of Api Ratuniyarawa from Northampton Saints.

The experienced lock will join Declan Kidney’s squad when preparations begin for the 2022/23 season.

Ratuniyarawa, who has made 130 appearances for Saints in his six seasons at Franklin’s Gardens, arrived in the Midlands from Agen in 2016 and went on to reach the Premiership semi-finals and win a Premiership Rugby Cup for Northampton.

The 6ft 6ins, 19 stone second-row forward was awarded Saints’ Breakthrough Player of the Season in his first full season in 2017/18 and has appeared for Saints in four Champions Cup campaigns.

In 2012, the Fijian made his international debut in front of a Twickenham crowd against England, representing his country in the 2015 and 2019 Rugby World Cups, scoring two tries on the biggest rugby stage.

Director of Rugby Declan Kidney emphasised how Ratuniyarawa’s recognised Premiership and international proficiency will serve the Exiles squad well.

“Api is a very experienced player who we identified as a good fit for the team, and he will be an important member of the squad at London Irish next year.

“He has many notable attributes we hope will aid us in furthering our results on the pitch and assist in the development of the younger members of this Club.”

Api Ratuniyarawa expressed his delight in confirming his move to the Brentford Community Stadium next season.

“London Irish is a fantastic Club, and I am aware that I am joining at a significant time in the team’s journey.

“I am really excited about taking this next step in my rugby career, and having played in Brentford already this year, I now can’t wait to pull on the green jersey and play in front of the London Irish fans.”

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