Cardiff Blues announce Willis Halaholo signing

Guinness PRO12

Cardiff Blues announce Willis Halaholo signing

ESPN Staff

April 1, 2016

Willis Halaholo of the Hurricanes is tackled by Tom Botha (L) and Stefan Willemse of the Kings© Hagen Hopkins/Getty Images

Cardiff Blues have announced the signing of highly-rated centre Willis Halaholo from Super Rugby side Hurricanes.

Halaholo will join the Guinness PRO12 side on a "long-term contract" following the conclusion of the NPC competition with Waikato later this year.

Cardiff head coach Danny Wilson told the club's official website: "Willis is a player we have been aware of for some time and who is really showing his ability and having a strong Super Rugby season with the Hurricanes. We are excited about what he will bring to the Cardiff Blues when he joins us later this year.

"Willis is a creative presence at centre and we feel his game will really suit the playing surface at Cardiff Arms Park. Alongside with the likes of Rey Lee-Lo and Matthew Morgan, he will add even more attacking threat to our game.

"He is also strong defensively and is only going to get better the more he plays. He has learnt from the likes of Conrad Smith and Ma'a Nono in recent years so is a player who is developing fast. I know Willis is excited about the challenge of playing Northern Hemisphere rugby and we look forward to welcoming him later this year once he has completed his commitments in New Zealand."

Halaholo added: "The opportunity to join a club like Cardiff Blues, who play at a venue with such a rich history, was very appealing. After speaking with the coaches and understanding what they are looking for I am excited about being able to contribute next season and beyond.

"The timing was very good for me and my family and the chance to play rugby in another part of the world and experience some true Welsh culture is also exciting."

© ESPN Staff

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Cardiff Blues announce Willis Halaholo signing