Tigers Sign Moli, Savea Linked to Rugby League Move

Leicester Tigers have officially confirmed the signing of Tonga international hooker Sam Moli, following the dissolution of his former Super Rugby team, Moana Pasifika. In other major player news, All Blacks captain Ardie Savea is reportedly considering a surprise switch to rugby league.

Moli, a 27-year-old New Zealand-born front-rower, joins the English Premiership club after making 47 appearances over four years for Moana Pasifika. He has also earned 27 caps for Tonga since his debut in 2021, including an appearance at the 2023 Rugby World Cup featuring at the 2023 Rugby World Cup. The hooker is expected to provide significant depth and power to the Tigers' front row.

Moli’s Move to Leicester Tigers

Leicester Tigers head coach Geoff Parling expressed his satisfaction with the acquisition, stating that Moli will add "quality and depth" to the team’s hooking options. Parling noted Moli is a big body and a strong scrummager, predicting he will suit the English game. Moli himself expressed excitement about joining the Tigers, viewing it as an opportunity to develop his game alongside some of England’s top players. His move comes after Moana Pasifika disbanded earlier this year due to financial difficulties, as reported by Planet Rugby.

Moli’s tenure with Moana Pasifika began in 2022, and he quickly established himself as a dynamic and powerful hooker. His international career with Tonga kicked off with his debut against the All Blacks in 2021. This move to the Premiership marks a significant new chapter for the experienced forward.

Savea's Potential League Switch

Meanwhile, reports suggest that All Blacks skipper Ardie Savea could be making a dramatic career change, with links to the Papua New Guinea (PNG) Chiefs, a rugby league club. The PNG Chiefs, established in 2024, are slated to join Australia's National Rugby League (NRL) in the 2028 season as an NRL expansion outfit. This potential move comes after a period of significant changes in Savea's club career.

The 32-year-old flanker recently concluded a sabbatical with the Kobelco Kobe Steelers in Japan, where he helped them secure the Japan Rugby League One title. Prior to this, Savea represented the Hurricanes in Super Rugby from 2013 to 2023. After Moana Pasifika disbanded, Savea was also linked with a move to the Blues for the 2027 Super Rugby Pacific season, indicating a high demand for his talents across various formats of the game.

Savea's Recent Career Path and Future Prospects

Savea’s journey has included a stint with Moana Pasifika in 2025, further illustrating his varied and impactful career. The prospect of joining the PNG Chiefs for their inaugural NRL season in 2028 is particularly intriguing, as the team reportedly offers tax-free salaries, according to RugbyPass. Such a move would see one of rugby union's most prominent players transition to the 13-a-side code, a rare but significant shift for an active international captain.

This news highlights the dynamic nature of professional rugby careers, with players like Savea exploring diverse opportunities, and others like Moli adapting to new leagues following club dissolutions. For further updates on international rugby news, readers can refer to our dedicated coverage international rugby news.