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Former All Black Charles Piutau is to set to make his international return next month, lining up for the Barbarians when they take on England on May 27th.
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Piutau shifted from New Zealand to England in 2015, joining Wasps for a one-year spell before linking up with Ulster. He will join former Blues and All Blacks teammate Steven Luatua when he shifts to Bristol next season.
“I’ve enjoyed my time here [Ulster] but I’m very excited about the next challenge,” Piutau said.
“Playing at Bristol with my brother Siale and friends like Steven Luatua is going to be pretty cool. Siale’s kept me in touch with their season and I’m looking forward to playing in the Premiership. I’ve already had a taste of it and it’s a tough competition.”
26-year-old Piutau will be returning to Twickenham after making two appearances there five years ago. The first saw England beaten 30-22 and the second was a try-scoring debut for the Barbarians as they beat Fiji 43-19.
“They were both wins and good experiences and the atmosphere was pretty cool,” said Piutau.
“Playing for the Baabaas was different and everyone had told me there is a special feel to it. Playing alongside people I’d played against, like Willie Le Roux, Jean De Villiers, Bismarck du Plessis was pretty good and one of the great things about rugby.”
Piutau will be reunited with another familiar face when he joins Bristol. Head coach Pat Lam briefly coached Piutau with the Blues.
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