Dragons RFC are delighted to announce the signing of Tonga international prop Paula Latu on a short-term deal.
The 28-year-old powerhouse – who stands 6ft 2in and weighs 123kg - joins from New Zealand side Southland Stags.
The tighthead has won five caps for his country to date, after making his debut in a Rugby World Cup warm-up match against Canada in 2023.
Latu came off the bench in Tonga’s win against Romania at last year’s Rugby World Cup as well as three replacement appearances in the recent Autumn internationals.
Paula’s older brother Penikolo is also a Tongan international, with the winger having represented his country at the 2023 Rugby World Cup.
Interim Head Coach Filo Tiatia said: “He has come in as cover and arrived on Monday afternoon. He has joined the team and is going to be good here.
“Paula is a good young man and we have been proactive to find the right person to come in – he is a ball-carrying tighthead and is an athlete.
“He is still learning his craft but (Forwards Coach) Sam Hobbs has looked at him closely and likes what he sees, with an opportunity to help him keep growing.
“He is registered and is currently going through the selection process after just arriving,” added Tiatia.
“In terms of selection, we will assess him and decide on him. He has travelled over 24 hours to get here so we want to be smart with working with him.”
Paula is a ball carrying prop, but he can also play. He’s an athlete and a young man still learning his craft who we can work with...
