Leicester Tigers sign the most violent rugby player on the planet - 6'7, 20 stone Tomas Lavanini
Leicester Tigers have confirmed the signing of Argentina international forward Tomás Lavanini for next season.
First capped by the Pumas in 2013, the 26-year-old has become a key member of the Argentina pack with 47 senior caps and, at 6ft 7in and weighing well over 19 stone, he has a considerable physical presence.
Lavanini is known for his aggression on the field and has frequently been on the receiving end of various disciplinary sanctions throughout his career.
Tigers head coach Geordan Murphy said: “Tomas has played an important part in a big, physical and impressive Los Pumas pack and he has a lot of experience for a player of his age.
“He brings a lot of the attributes we’ve been looking for in that area and we think he can continue to develop with us. We’re delighted that he has agreed to join the Tigers and we’re sure the Welford Road supporters will give him a big welcome.”
Lavanini has previous experience of European rugby during a season at Racing 92 in France and is currently playing for the Jaguares in his home country.
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Lavanini said: “It is an exciting challenge for me to make the move to the Premiership next season and one I am very much looking forward to.”
“To join a club like Leicester is a huge honour and I can’t wait to become a Tigers player, working alongside the players in the squad and playing at Welford Road.
“The club is entering a new chapter under Geordan murphy and I’m keen to contribute and help build on the success of the past.”
Lavinini becomes the fourth international to agree a move to Welford Road ahead of the 2019/20 campaign and joins Tigers academy graduate Calum Green in new additions to the club’s second row stocks.
The Argentina international and fellow new recruits Green, Jaco Taute, Noel Reid and Nephi Leatigaga join Jordan Taufua in committing to the club for the 2019/20 season, as well as Tigers academy graduate Manu Tuilagi who recently agreed a new deal at Welford Road.
Tuilagi is one of seven graduates to have renewed with Tigers this year with Harry Wells, Ben White, Tommy Reffell, Jordan Olowofela, Harry Simmons, Tom Hardwick and Sam Lewis joining the England and British Lions representative in committing their futures to the club.
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I dont believe Skelton has ever proven himself at test level tho Nick. Yep he played well against a side they scored plenty against but his record v the top sides isnt special. Good quality player but Im not as convinced about him as you seem to be, as you base most of your opinion on his local club stuff not really his test performances. His test record of 30 tests in 10 years explains itself very well. I think he is an honest performer but certainly not a top notch International player.
Go to commentsI wonder Jake, who do you think is the best fit for Australia as a coach? Not since Joe Schmidt took over as coach did Australia look any good, however, there is always this debate around not having an Aussie coach by the fans and so called pundits and old players.
Some of them are changing their minds now however, but I would love to see who you would choose. I think Joe Schmidt is an excellent coach, who puts in everything for the team he is coaching. To him, there is no such thing as being biased.
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