“It’s been a privilege of mine to be part of Munster Rugby for the last two seasons, however, the opportunity that lies ahead to be a part of a prestigious club like Harlequins is a great honour,” he said.
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“I’m looking forward to a new challenge in the Premiership under the direction of the coaches and alongside my new team. Harlequins has a rich heritage and strong tradition and I look forward to being part of an ongoing legacy which the club continues to uphold.”
Twice capped by the All Blacks, the signing of Saili is a significant coup for Harlequins as they look to improve on their sixth-placed finish last term.
Director of Rugby John Kingston has already been busy strengthening his squad during the off-season and Saili is the seventh arrival following that of Demetri Catrakilis, Renaldo Bothma, Dave Lewis, Phil Swainston, Lewis Boyce and Josh McNulty.
“I am absolutely delighted to confirm that Francis is joining Harlequins on a long-term contract,” Kingston said.
“He is a high class, quality player who is comfortable at either 12 or 13. Alongside his obvious talent, he will help balance the squad further by being available for us all season, which is just as important, given our ambitions as a club.
“Francis is an extremely exciting signing who I know our fans will really enjoy watching.”
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Harlequins announce signing of Francis Saili following Munster departure
HARLEQUINS HAVE ANNOUNCED the signing of former Munster centre Francis Saili on a long-term contract.
The 26-year-old moves to the Premiership club having spent two years with Munster before his departure at the end of last season.
Saili, who made 40 appearances and scored nine tries for the southern province, made no secret of his desire to stay at Thomond Park beyond this summer but Munster confirmed his release in May.
“It’s been a privilege of mine to be part of Munster Rugby for the last two seasons, however, the opportunity that lies ahead to be a part of a prestigious club like Harlequins is a great honour,” he said.
“I’m looking forward to a new challenge in the Premiership under the direction of the coaches and alongside my new team. Harlequins has a rich heritage and strong tradition and I look forward to being part of an ongoing legacy which the club continues to uphold.”
Twice capped by the All Blacks, the signing of Saili is a significant coup for Harlequins as they look to improve on their sixth-placed finish last term.
Director of Rugby John Kingston has already been busy strengthening his squad during the off-season and Saili is the seventh arrival following that of Demetri Catrakilis, Renaldo Bothma, Dave Lewis, Phil Swainston, Lewis Boyce and Josh McNulty.
“I am absolutely delighted to confirm that Francis is joining Harlequins on a long-term contract,” Kingston said.
“He is a high class, quality player who is comfortable at either 12 or 13. Alongside his obvious talent, he will help balance the squad further by being available for us all season, which is just as important, given our ambitions as a club.
“Francis is an extremely exciting signing who I know our fans will really enjoy watching.”
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