Toulon Secures Signing of All Blacks Prospect Leicester Fainga’anuku
Renowned French club Toulon has secured the signing of promising All Blacks prospect Leicester Fainga’anuku ahead of the upcoming 2023/24 Top 14 season. The 23-year-old winger has penned an 18-month contract with the French side, which will see him through the end of the 2024/25 campaign.
Fainga’anuku, who has been named in Ian Foster’s squad for the 2023 Rugby World Cup in France, will first see out his existing commitments with the Super Rugby powerhouse Crusaders. After the global tournament, the talented player will then join Toulon, adding an exciting attacking threat to their lineup.
“100%, I’m still hungry for that black jersey. Obviously, last year I didn’t quite get as much game time as I expected, but this season I really want to make a mark and show that I’m one that really is eager to put on that black jersey, especially in the World Cup.”
While the financial incentive played a role, the winger’s primary motivation is to experience a new rugby culture and compete against the best international players in the world week in, week out. With 52 Crusaders appearances and two All Blacks caps already under his belt, Fainga’anuku is confident in his abilities and ready to embark on this new chapter in the northern hemisphere.
“The money is just the bonus, but the real excitement is competing against some of the best international players in the world every week, the majority of them are up there,” he said.
Fainga’anuku’s versatility, having previously played center for the Crusaders, coupled with his prolific try-scoring record of 21 tries in the past two seasons, make him a valuable asset for Toulon as they look to strengthen their rugby transfers and secure deals with top-tier international players.
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