Wasps sign 6'4, 101kg Maori All Black and 7s flyer

Wasps have announced the signing of Maori All Black Ambrose Curtis.

The 26-year-old winger/full back will arrive in Coventry ahead of the 2018/19 campaign.

Curtis’s powerful 6ft 4 frame has made a mark in New Zealand’s domestic Mitre 10 Cup over the last five seasons, initially for Wellington then since 2015 for Manawatu.

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He has also represented New Zealand on the international sevens circuit and at under 20 level in the 2012 World Cup.

Dai Young said: “We continually seek to strengthen our squad, and we believe Ambrose’s signing does exactly that. He has done well in New Zealand’s domestic competition and also for the Maori All Blacks.

“He will bring added physical presence to our back-line and I’m sure will offer plenty to the squad.”

Ambrose Curtis told the club website: “I am really excited to be joining Wasps next season, a club with great history and very talented players and coaches.

“It is a fantastic opportunity for me to develop as a rugby player and I intend to grasp the opportunity with both hands. I look forward to meeting my new team mates, working hard and giving my all for Wasps.”

Curtis capped off a great first year as an All Black 7s player by being named the IRB Sevens Rookie of the Year.

The flying Wellington winger was a standout player, dotting down 19 times and gained selection after impressing for his province in the ITM Cup.

Another product of the Junior World Championships, having pulled on an Under 20 black jersey in 2012, hails from the Oriental-Rongotai club that has also produced sevens stars Lote Raikabula, and brothers Julian and Ardie Savea.