'I'd multiple opportunities': Sione Vailanu signs for Glasgow

Glasgow have signed Tongan No8 Sione Vailanu from Worcester for the 2022/23 campaign subject to medical and visa. The 27-year-old, who is trading one brand of Warriors for another, has been one of the bright spots this season for the Gallagher Premiership strugglers, whom he joined last summer following other stints in England with Wasps and Saracens. 

A Glasgow statement read: “Standing at 6ft 1in, Vailanu initially turned heads during a four-year stint at Asahi University in Japan, proving a standout sevens player and representing Samurai at the 2017 Hong Kong 10s.

“His performances at that tournament earned him a short-term contract with Saracens, with the Tongan going on to make ten appearances for the European heavyweights before joining Wasps on a two-year deal in 2019.

What happened when RugbyPass went behind the scenes with the Tonga team before the 2019 World Cup

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What happened when RugbyPass went behind the scenes with the Tonga team before the 2019 World Cup

“After making the switch to Sixways, the Tongan has once again proven himself to be an explosive figure with ball in hand. 

“A highlight-reel worthy try in the victory over Bristol Bears last month had pundits purring with approval, a score which proved decisive for the Warriors… To date, he has earned ten caps for his country, most recently in defeat to Romania in November 2021.”

Worcester back-rower Vailanu told the Glasgow Warriors website: “I had multiple opportunities for next season in different countries but when the opportunity arose to join Glasgow, I didn’t think twice about it. Glasgow has a rich tradition of success and with Danny (Wilson) as head coach and the players that we currently have, I have no doubts that tradition will continue next season and beyond. I cannot wait to get started and meet our fans at Scotstoun!”

Wilson added: “We’re really pleased to secure Sione’s signature ahead of next season. He is a really powerful carrier who can give us real go-forward with ball in hand. We have been looking to add to our options in the back row and he adds to the talent that we already have in that area. 

“It’s another step forward in building depth in our squad. His recent form has been excellent for Worcester, including winning man of the match against Wasps, and we look forward to welcoming him to Scotstoun this summer.”