Munster Sign Francis Saili

Munster Rugby can today confirm the signing of Blues centre Francis Saili on a two-year contract.

The 24 year-old has made 33 Super Rugby appearances for the Blues, scoring five tries, and represented Auckland in the ITM Cup on 31 occasions.

Saili made his debut for the All Blacks against Argentina in September 2013 at Hamilton, and was part of the New Zealand Under 20 team that won the Junior World Championship in Italy in 2011. Last November the Auckland native also featured for the Barbarians, scoring a try against Australia in Twickenham.

Commenting on the move Francis Saili said, “I believe this is a fantastic opportunity for me and I am fortunate to move to a club held in such high regard, with values and traditions I can relate to from my time here in the Blues. This experience will stand to me as a player and I believe I can continue to improve and grow within the Munster set-up. As difficult as it is to leave the Blues I look forward to the exciting challenge ahead.”

On confirming the signing Head Coach Anthony Foley said, “We are really pleased that Francis has committed his future to the province. He is a talented centre with an impressive skill-set and he possesses the physical attributes to excel in the Northern Hemisphere . I believe he will be a great addition to our backline and we look forward to welcoming him to Munster.”

Currently involved with the Blues, Saili will join the province later this this year on completion of his 2015 contractual commitments.

Name: Francis Saili
Position: Centre
Height: 1.8m
Weight: 94kg
Born: Auckland
D.O.B: 16/02/91