BRISTOL HAVE PULLED off a coup by securing the signature of New Zealand second-row forward Steven Luatua for next season.
Bottom of the Premiership with just two wins from their 14 games so far this season, Luatua could end up playing second-tier rugby if Bristol cannot secure survival.
Luatua, who has 15 All Blacks caps to his name, will link up with current Connacht head coach Pat Lam — a former coach of his Super Rugby franchise Blues. Lam will leave the western province at the end of this season to take charge in Bristol.
Bristol described the deal as “among the most significant signings in the club’s recent history”.
Luatua said in a statement: “I have a fantastic relationship with Pat and I enjoyed working with him at the Blues. I’m looking forward to taking on a new challenge with Bristol and contributing to the long-term vision of the club.
“Bristol Rugby is one of the most ambitious clubs in the UK and that’s backed up by a really passionate fan base. I’ve heard great things about the environment that is being built there and the plans in place, so I can’t wait to get started.”
Luatua was not a member of the All Blacks’ World Cup-winning squad in 2015, but appeared for his country as recently as last November.
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