CHINNOR RFC Thame is delighted to welcome former Leicester Tigers forward Fred Tuilagi to Kingsey Road.

The No 8 becomes our fifth signing of the summer and adds further meat to our pack, weighing in at 120kg and standing at 6ft 3in.

Fred – the son of Samoa legend Freddie and the nephew of England star Manu – joins Chinnor from Greene King IPA Championship side London Scottish.

Initially a hooker, Tuilagi moved to the back row in academy rugby and enjoyed loan spells with Coventry, South Leicester and Leicester Lions before establishing himself at Leicester Tigers.

Fred made his senior Tigers debut against Bath in the 2017/18 Anglo-Welsh Cup, making eight appearances in total, scoring one try.

The 24-year-old, who has also played for Italian Top 12 outfit Rugby Colorno, is looking forward to getting started.

He said: “I’m very excited to be joining Chinnor. I love the ambition and where Thorpey wants to take the Club and I’m hoping I can play a part in that success. Everyone has been class in welcoming me to the Club and I’m excited for the opportunity to pull on the Chinnor colours and run out with a great bunch of lads.”

Chinnor RFC Thame Director of Rugby, Richard Thorpe added: “Although a relatively young player still, Fred brings a wealth of experience to Kingsey Road. We have already witnessed the power and natural skill set typical of his family during pre-season. He is an ambitious rugby player, and I am excited to work with him to uncover even more of his potential. I am confident our members and supporters will quickly grow very fond of Fred, and he will no doubt play a huge role in our 2021/22 campaign.”