Leicester Tigers Strengthen Squad with Key Signings

Leicester Tigers have announced significant signings for the upcoming season, including former England loose-head prop Mako Vunipola and Argentine tight-head prop Joel Sclavi. Vunipola, 35, currently plays for Vannes in France's Pro D2 and has a distinguished career, including 79 appearances for England and participation in three British and Irish Lions tours. He expressed his excitement about joining Leicester, stating, “It’s something I would never have envisaged but I am honoured to be part of this prestigious club.” Sclavi, 31, joins from La Rochelle, where he won two European Champions Cups and has 33 caps for Argentina. He remarked, “I’m proud and happy to be part of a club with so much history and identity.”

BBC NewsThe GuardianLeicester Tigers sign Puma Joel Sclavi from La RochelleRugby Transfers: Springboks snub picks Top 14 over Glasgow while Franco Smith signs little-known South African, Leicester Tigers add Test prop and Exeter Chiefs continue recruitment drive

In addition to Vunipola and Sclavi, Leicester has also signed Bristol Bears centre Joe Jenkins and Harlequins hooker Jack Doorey-Palmer. Jenkins, 22, previously represented England at the Under-20 level and is eager to contribute to Leicester's future success. Doorey-Palmer, also 22, is a product of Harlequins' academy and has been on loan at Cambridge.

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Leicester's head coach, Geoff Parling, emphasized the importance of these signings in strengthening the team's front row. He noted Vunipola's experience and skill, stating, “He was hungry for the chance to come back to the Prem and finish in the comp he knows best.” Parling also highlighted Sclavi's size and strength as valuable assets for the team's set-piece strategy.

The Guardian

In a contrasting development, Leicester Tigers confirmed the midseason departure of lock forward Deni Ross, who has returned to Australia. Ross joined the club from the Queensland Reds and made 10 appearances this season. Fraser Goatcher, Leicester's Head of Women’s Rugby, praised Ross's contributions, stating, “Her work at the lineout has been invaluable to us.” Ross expressed gratitude for her time at Leicester, calling it a privilege to play for the club.

'I wish her the best of luck': Leicester announce midseason departure

The signings of Vunipola and Sclavi reflect Leicester's strategy to bolster their squad as they aim for improved performance in the Premiership. With the team currently struggling at the bottom of the league table, these acquisitions may provide the necessary experience and depth to enhance their competitive edge.

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Geoff Parling stated, “We pride ourselves on our set-piece and what we do up front first, so it was important to get some more options there.” He expressed optimism about the impact Vunipola and Sclavi will have on the team, particularly in mentoring younger players.

The Guardian

• “It’s something I would never have envisaged but I am honoured to be part of this prestigious club.” — Mako Vunipola

The Guardian

• “I’m proud and happy to be part of a club with so much history and identity.” — Joel Sclavi

Rugby Transfers: Springboks snub picks Top 14 over Glasgow while Franco Smith signs little-known South African, Leicester Tigers add Test prop and Exeter Chiefs continue recruitment drive

As Leicester Tigers prepare for the next season, the integration of these new players will be closely monitored, particularly in light of their current league standing. The club aims to leverage the experience of Vunipola and Sclavi to foster a more competitive environment moving forward.

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