Leicester Tigers sign Phil Cokanasiga ahead of 2022/23 season

Leicester Tigers have confirmed the signing of Phil Cokanasiga from Premiership rivals London Irish ahead of the 2022/23 season.

Cokanasiga, a product of London Irish Academy, made his professional rugby debut with the club in the 2019/20 season and featured for them in both the Premiership and European Challenge Cup.

He was called up to the England U20 squad for the U20 Six Nations Championships during the summer of 2021 during which the team went on to win the Grand Slam.

“Everybody knows how big Leicester Tigers is as a club and where things are going, how they are improving, it is something that is exciting to be able to a part of," he told the club's official website.

“In my first chat with Steve Borthwick, he was really direct and kept it really simple and I appreciate that.

“I see myself as a ball carrier first and, with Fijian blood, I have been blessed with a bit of footwork, so I want to be able to add to the team with that and more.

“I just want to contribute however I can and I am excited about the chance.”

Meanwhile, the club also confirmed that five players including Chris Ashton, Sean Jansen, Kini Murimurivalu, Harry Simmons and Richard Wigglesworth have signed contract extensions with the club.

Leicester Tigers hold the top place in the Gallagher Premiership table with 18 wins from 22 matches.