Samisoni Taukei'aho rugby player
Samisoni Taukei'aho rugby player

Samisoni Taukei'aho

8th Aug 1997 1.83m/115kg Hooker

Samisoni Taukei'aho, born on 8 August 1997, is a talented rugby union player of Tongan descent. He currently plays as a hooker for the Chiefs in the Super Rugby competition and represents the New Zealand national rugby union team.

Taukei'aho's journey in rugby began when he toured New Zealand as the captain of Tonga's under-15s team, where his skills caught the attention of talent scouts. In 2014, he moved to St Paul's Collegiate in Hamilton on an international scholarship, further honing his rugby abilities.

In 2017, Taukei'aho made his provincial debut for Waikato, showcasing his talent and potential. His performances earned him an Investec Super Rugby contract with the Gallagher Chiefs for the 2018 season. Since then, he has been an integral part of the Chiefs squad, making significant contributions as a hooker.

Off the field, Taukei'aho is pursuing his education and studying a Bachelor of Law part-time at the University of Waikato. His commitment to balancing his studies and rugby demonstrates his dedication and ambition both on and off the field.

Taukei'aho's impressive performances did not go unnoticed by the selectors, and he was called into the All Blacks squad in 2021 for the Steinlager Series against Fiji. When Dane Coles had to withdraw due to injury, Taukei'aho seized the opportunity and made his test debut off the bench, making an immediate impact by scoring two tries. He was also part of the All Blacks' 23-man squad for the Bledisloe Cup Test, contributing to their victory and the retention of the Bledisloe Cup for another year.

Taukei'aho's strength, skill, and work ethic have established him as a promising hooker in New Zealand rugby. With his contributions to both club and international rugby, he continues to make a name for himself and is poised to have a successful and impactful career.

Ahead of the Rugby World Cup 2023, Taukei'aho has been named in the squad for New Zealand.

KG(01/06/2023)

Career

chiefs Chiefs
Hooker
2017 - present
Untitled (4) Waikato
Hooker
2017 - present
New Zealand New Zealand
Hooker
2021 - present