Rugby United New York have announced the signing of Samoan international Sakaria ‘Zak’ Taulafo for the 2021 Major League Rugby season. The 37-year-old prop joins from the Colorado Raptors following their withdrawal from the league.
Taulafo signed for the Raptors after spending a decade as a professional in Europe and winning 44 caps for Manu Samoa. He appeared in all five matches for the Raptors during the shortened 2020 campaign, starting three and coming off the bench twice.
Primarily a loosehead prop, Taulafo can also cover tighthead when required though that position now appears to be covered by RUNY’s two previous front row additions. Samu Tawake has been signed from Manawatu in New Zealand while Brazil’s Wilton Rebolo, who also plays hooker, arrives from Austin.