Sione Vailanu

Tongan international Sione Vailanu joined Glasgow Warriors ahead of the 2022/23 season, making the move north from Worcester Warriors.

The back-rower made 21 appearances during his season at Sixways, impressing with his explosive brand of ball carrying.

Prior to his move to Worcester, Vailanu had become something of a cult hero with Wasps supporters, making 31 appearances over a two-year stint with the Premiership outfit.

A powerful presence at the base of the scrum, he helped his side reach the Premiership Final in 2020, scoring five tries in all competitions.

Vailanu initially turned heads during a four-year stint at Asahi University in Japan, proving a standout 7s player and representing Samurai RFC at the 2017 Hong Kong 10s.

His performances at that tournament earned him a short-term contract with Saracens, with the Tongan going on to make 10 appearances for the European heavyweights.

First capped for Tonga against Japan in 2017, Vailanu made a memorable impression on his first start for the Ikale Tahi, picking off an interception and running in a try from 65 metres against Wales at the Principality Stadium in November 2018.