MLR Notes: Arrows acquire Waitokia, Byrne move to Hounds off

Toronto have grabbed more talent from the team formerly known as Rugby ATL. Following Rewita Biddle and Jordan Brown to the Great White North is speedster Te Rangatira Waitokia. In exchange the relocating team will receive salary cap considerations for the 2024 season.

The 27-year-old was a mainstay in the ATL backline over the past three seasons, primarily as a wing but also spending time at outside center. Waitokia also joins Canadian international Robbie Povey in what will be a new-look backline for the Arrows.

Chicago will not have the talents of Adam Byrne in their backline next year. The Connacht winger has instead opted to retire at the age of just 29. He had previously spent a decade at Leinster and was capped once by Ireland against Argentina in 2017, but injuries ruined his chances for more accolades.

While Byrne won’t be coming, the team has also been linked with another former Ireland wing in 34-year-old Dave Kearney. Certain to join the Hounds in 2024 is new Eagles scrumhalf Nick McCarthy, who is expected to be formally unveiled by the team in the near future.

The Gold have acquired a 1st-round pick, 7th overall, in Thursday’s Collegiate Draft from Utah. In exchange the Warriors get NOLA’s 3rd-round pick in 2024 as well as salary cap considerations for the 2024 season. NOLA now has back-to-back picks with the 6th overall spot already theirs.