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Michael Cheika's Leicester Tigers sign Ben Volavola
By Ian Cameron
Leicester Tigers have announced the signing of Fiji international Ben Volavola for the 2024/25 season - as first reported by RugbyPass nearly two weeks ago.
The versatile back - who can play multiple positions - brings significant experience to the English Premiership side.
The 33-year0old has accumulated over 200 professional rugby appearances including 38 Test caps for Fiji. He has represented his country in two Rugby World Cup campaigns.
Before joining Leicester, Volavola spent the last seven seasons playing in France. His tenure in the Top 14 and Pro D2 saw him feature for clubs such as Racing 92, Perpignan and most recently Agen.
On joining Leicester Tigers, Volavola said: “I am honoured and excited to join this club, and this talented group.”
“I’ve been waiting for the right opportunity and after speaking to (Michael), I jumped at the chance to come to Leicester and I’m excited to see what we can do this season.”
Leicester Tigers Head Coach Michael Cheika said: “We’re very pleased to be able to add a player of Ben’s experience and quality to the squad.”
“Ben’s knowledge of northern-hemisphere rugby from his time in France is a plus, and his experience at international level is invaluable. I know he’s a man of good character and will add value to our environment.”
Born in Sydney, Australia, Volavola began his professional career with the NSW Waratahs. He broke into the senior squad under the guidance of coach Michael Cheika ahead of the 2013 Super Rugby season. His early promise was evident as he had already represented Australia U20s at the 2011 Junior World Championships.
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Latest Comments
Nah hes a journeyman. Right call
Go to commentsAgreed for the most part. And perhaps Dmac needed a period were he is the 'Hobson's choice' too.
Yes and no, they main concern I had from the situation is Razor didn't really explain why they had developed differing opinions, had he? I've seen too many things happen in life to jump the gun. Fall all we know it was a locked in choice before they found the difference last year and played out this year to see if they were recoverable. I can certainly see where it would be a valid criticism to suggest he spent too much time reviewing his players tripping overseas and not enough work with his team at that time. But things like Tony Brown not even being contacted in the lead up to the naming of the squad are endemic in the union, and for much just as much blame should be laid on someone like Wayne Smith. Some like Mitch would have been aval at the same time too I'd think.
Ultimately I see MacDs time at the Blues much as I saw Ian Fosters time at the Chiefs. Heavily overshadowed by their successors but you could find something good in there if you wanted. Same here. This will play out.
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