Brumbies announce signing of tighthead prop Sefo Kautai

Brumbies have announced the signing of tighthead prop Sefo Kautai ahead of the 2022 season of Super Rugby Pacific.

The 25-year-old started his career with Waikato in 2016 and went on to make his Super Rugby debut with Chiefs a year later. He also had a brief stint with Japanese side Kobelco Steelers before returning to provincial side Waikato.

He joined Brumbies as an injury cover in March and went on to make five appearances for them.

"I'm really pleased to be coming back to Canberra with the Brumbies," he told the club's official website.

"I didn't know what to expect when I came in last season, but the club were just so welcoming to me, and I loved every minute of it.

"Working with our coaches, the experienced front-rowers we have has been great for me and my game and I'm just looking forward to getting back to the Brumbies for preseason and doing my best for the club."

Brumbies head coach Dan McKellar is delighted with the signing of Kautai as he believes the former New Zealand Under 20 international will add more depth to the squad.

"We were really impressed with Sefo last year, so we're delighted we'll have him back again this season."

"Given he had no preseason with us, had a mountain of detail thrown at him, we thought he did exceptionally well and with his age profile, we think he's someone who can grow with us.

"Tighthead props aren't exactly easy to find so to have Allan, Rossy and Sefo gives us tremendous depth in a position which you need to be strong at any level of the game, and I'm excited to see how good Sefo can be with a preseason under his belt."