Cult Figure Taumalolo Returns To Hawke's Bay
- 2674
Tongan International and former Chiefs' Super Rugby winner, Sona Taumalolo has signed with Hawke’s Bay for the upcoming Mitre 10 Cup season.
One of Hawke’s Bays favorite sons of Magpies' faithful, Taumalolo has been playing in France for Perpignan, Racing 92 and Grenoble since 2012 and is looking forward to the chance to add to his 61 caps and 18 tries for the Magpies.
“I am really excited to return to Hawkes Bay with the chance to again pull on the black and white jersey. I look forward to sharing my experience with the young team and playing in front of the Magpies fans once again”
If you need any reminder of the passion Sona Taumalolo brings to the game, have a look at this! pic.twitter.com/A2airofzlB
— Hawke's Bay Magpies (@Magpies_Unoff) July 2, 2020
Magpies Coach Mark Ozich was naturally delighted to have Taumalolo join his squad this season “ It’s great to have Sona back in the Bay and with the magpies for the 2020 Mitre 10 cup. We’re looking forward to working with him and he’s a great addition to our squad with a proven track record. For Sona and his family I know it’s an exciting time to return home and be amongst family and friends.”
HBRFU Chief Executive Jay Campbell shared in Ozich’s delight having worked with Taumalolo during his previous stint in Hawke’s Bay. “Sona is a crowd favourite amongst Magpies fans and the fact he wanted to return home and represent Clive and the Magpies before he hangs up his boots epitomises what these teams mean to him. I’m sure everyone will be excited to see him running out on McLean Park once again”
Taumalolo's career to date:
- Hawke’s Bay, 61 games, 18 tries, 2005-2011
- Chiefs, 52 games, 15 tries, 2009-2012
- Tonga, 20 Tests, 4 tries, 2011-2015
