Fiji international Lomani released by Northampton Saints

Fijian international Frank Lomani has been released by Northampton Saints in order to pursue overseas playing opportunities.

It is being rumoured that Lomani, who previously played for the Melbourne Rebels, is set to link up with Super Rugby Pacific side Fijian Drua.

The 25-year-old struggled to get gametime at Northampton since signing last year, making just five appearances to date. It was also announced that Italian scrumhalf Calum Braley is on the way to the club, suggesting the Fijian would have even more competition game time.

A statement from the club reads: "Northampton Saints can today confirm that scrum-half Frank Lomani has been released from his contract with the Club to pursue another playing opportunity overseas.

"The Fijian No.9 arrived at cinch Stadium at Franklin’s Gardens last summer ahead of the 2021/22 campaign, and made five appearances in Black, Green and Gold.

"The Club would like to thank Frank for his contribution to Northampton Saints and to wish him well for the future."

Lomani made his breakthrough in 2018, with a series of impressive performances for the Fijian Drua in the Australian NRC earning him the competition’s Player of the Year award, as well as a call-up to play for the Barbarians in their 38-35 victory over Argentina at Twickenham.

After cementing his place in the Flying Fijians’ line-up throughout their 2019 Pacific Nations Cup campaign, Lomani started three matches at the 2019 Rugby World Cup and signed up with the Rebels in Melbourne, where he subsequently made 25 appearances in the Super Rugby competition.

Meanwhile, Braley will join Saints ahead of next season from United Rugby Championship club Benetton.

Bristol-born Braley, who qualifies for the Azzurri through his grandfather, is a member of Italy’s Guinness Six Nations squad and has won 13 caps. He played for Gloucester before moving to Benetton two years ago, and also featured for Italy at the 2019 World Cup in Japan.