The Western Force have significantly bolstered their front-row depth with the signing of Chiefs prop Atu Moli.
It comes after the club announced the re-signing of prop Santiago Medrano on a one-year extension.
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Moli played for the All Blacks on five occasions, including the 2019 Rugby World Cup.
The 28-year-old has been a part of the Chiefs squad since 2016, eager to head west for further game-time.
“I’m looking forward to taking my young family across to Australia,” Moli said. “I have very much enjoyed my time at the Chiefs but excited for a new challenge.
“In speaking to Simon Cron and some of the boys playing at the Force, I'm excited about where the club is heading and to be a part of it.
“When playing against the Force previously I’ve seen how loyal and passionate the supporters are. It will be great to meet and get amongst the fans next season.”
Able to cover both loosehead and tighthead, he looms as the perfect replacement for Tom Robertson, who has suffered a long-term injury.
“One of the positions we needed to add squad depth was at tighthead prop,” Cron said. “Atu brings with him a wealth of experience which will benefit us on the field, as well as helping to mentor some of our developing front row forwards off the field.
“The fact he can swing, and play both sides, gives us some flexibility and is a very unique skillset. Atu feels like some of his best rugby is still ahead of him. It's now our job to help him achieve that.”
Medrano has become the backbone of the Force prop since arriving at the club three years ago, narrowly missing out on selection for the 2023 World Cup with Argentina.
The 33-Test capped prop finished third in Nathan Sharpe Medal voting for 2022, excited to commit to his 'new home' in Perth.
"Perth has become our new home; we have loved our three years in WA and can't imagine living elsewhere in the immediate future," Medrano said.
"I wanted to stay at the Force as there is a lot of potential within the squad and club. We were so close to making finals this season; the squad has enough drive and talent to play finals footy in 2024.
“There have been huge shifts in mentality and skill from where I started at the club three years ago. The work that is constantly put in off the field is starting to show on match days, and I expect big things from this group next season."
Cron was equally as pleased, having recruited the likes of Harry Hoopert, Will Harris, Harry Potter, Ben Donaldson and Nic White for the 2024 season.
"Santi is a legend in our team. He is tough, resilient, and driven to be the best. The coaches love working with him, and the players follow him on and off the field," Cron said.
"We are excited that Santi and his partner Sofia are keen to stay in Perth and be a part of the Force into the future.
"I feel Santi still has huge upside and the potential to be one of the best tightheads in world rugby."
