Former dual rugby league international and Warriors utility back Solomone Kata has switched codes to play Super Rugby with the Brumbies from 2020.
The Tonga and New Zealand rugby league international has switched codes to join the Brumbies.
The 24-year-old has signed a three-year contract with the Canberra-based Super Rugby franchise, having previously played in the NRL with the New Zealand Warriors and Melbourne Storm.
Capped six times by Tonga, and on five occasions by the Kiwis, the utility back has been signed from 2020 to add depth to the Brumbies back line.
“He is a point of difference player with a physical profile to add to our squad,” said Brumbies coach Dan McKellar.
“He is a very powerful and dynamic footballer who has the ability to stress any defensive line.
“At this stage we see him as a utility back and we will be open minded about the position he plays.”
Kata, who scored 45 tries in 93 matches for the Warriors, joins the Brumbies from the Storm, where he did not make a first grade appearance.
“I have heard very good things about the Brumbies and how they have developed their players… I can’t wait to get to Canberra to start my professional rugby union career,” Kata said.
Markus
Roar Rookie
Lachlan Maranta?
gatesy
Roar Guru
Not the first, won't be the last, but if anyone can bring out the best in a player, it will be the Brums. i'm just amazed that people don't see it.
Bobby
Roar Rookie
Not really. Henry was ok but his best is way behind him. Cheap signing for the Reds. IMO, they were crazy to sign another Brumby at careers end (like Moore). Kara should be good for the midfield and give some real punch
Jobson Growf (MP Liberal Party)
Guest
How come you never hear of a dud leaving the NRL?
Jacko
Guest
Kata was looked at as a great future player and started his career very well with a lot of success....he then faded more and more as he lacked a decent right to left pass and often took the option to run no matter what the best option was.....I see 12 as a good position for him if they can sort out his passes as he certainly has some go forward in him....He faded fairly quickly off the team sheet once the Warriors bought some other options but if he can show some of the potential he definately has then it will be a good buy for the Brumbies...
Jacko
Guest
Really? How many Brumbies are local juniors? thats pro sport these days...
Jacko
Guest
Not for Wessels...he is the rugby coaching mesiah according to some.....I dont rate him as yet...Seems a one trick coach....Maybe needs some very good assistants around him...
OJ
Roar Rookie
If I was a rugby player in the ACT on the fringe of selection to the Brumbies I would be really really brassed off. Way to alienate your players McKellar. Far out.
Don
Roar Rookie
If he was signed cheaply by the Brumbies then how is Australian Rugby stupid? Rugby Australia haven’t recruited him. At least he’s got some schoolboys rugby in his background.
Tooly
Roar Rookie
We lost Henry to become Wayne Smith’s new Wallaby at the Reds. This bloke has big shoes to fill.
adam smith
Guest
Never said Laumape did excel at League, just pointing out flaws in Kata’s game in comparison.
terrence
Roar Rookie
laumape did not excel in league as he has done in union..who knows what kata will/can do in another code..
adam smith
Guest
Doubt it, Laumape was never lazy & could actually tackle. Kata has zero work ethic, & his tackle technique is terrible.
jameswm
Roar Guru
A star who doesn't start you mean?
Ken Catchpole's Other Leg
Roar Guru
Fair point soapit.
soapit
Roar Guru
surely the star description hasnt come from anyone involved in league has it?
MitchO
Guest
I agree Matt. What a waste of space Korobeiti turned out to be.
Old Bugger
Guest
oooops.....would've been a difficult challenge, that one.
Greysy
Roar Rookie
I'm not convinced by this one. He looks like another Chance Peni - big upside in attack but potential for massive issues in defence and a lack of ability to read the game. I will be massively impressed with the Brums if they can iron out his flaws and turn him into a well rounded player.
DonWan
Guest
Definitely not an NRL star