Harlequins sign New Zealander Naoupu

Harlequins have signed experienced number eight George Naoupu ahead of the new Premiership season.

The 32-year-old left Pro12 side Connacht this summer having made 102 appearances and scored nine tries over two spells.

Naoupu played for Canterbury, Tasman Makos and Hawkes Bay in his native New Zealand and was later selected for the Highlanders, making 11 appearances in two seasons of Super Rugby.

His move to Ireland came in 2009, although he left at the end of his first season to play for Japanese side Kobelco Steelers.

Returning to Connacht in 2011, Naoupu made his European debut at The Stoop in November 2011 and was part of the Connacht side which beat Harlequins in the reverse fixture.

Quins director of rugby John Kingston said: “He has the ability to break the first tackle and is an excellent offloader and will provide further power to our pack.

“I have already been impressed by the hunger he has shown to make a big impact in the Aviva Premiership for Harlequins.”