Italy international hooker Hame Faiva to join Worcester Warriors

Worcester Warriors have confirmed that Italy international hooker Hame Faiva will be joining the Gallagher Premiership ahead of the 2022/23 season.

The 27-year-old will head to Sixways from Benetton after being part of the Italy club since 2017/18 season.

He also becomes the fifth signing by Warriors Lead Rugby Consultant Steve Diamond, who will assign the role of director of rugby next season.

The 5ft 11in hooker started his career with provincial side Counties Manukau in 2005 before heading to Waikato in 2009. He represented New Zealand Under-20s in the 2013 and 2014 IRB Junior World Championship and then played for Italy A against Spain in Madrid last October.

Having qualified to play for Italy under residency rule, Faiva made his international debut in November last year against Uruguay and also featured in three games during the Six Nations earlier in the year.

“I had a good chat with Melani and he gave me a good low down on the club. He said that the club is really awesome and professional,” he told the club's official website.

“It’s not just the rugby side but also the rehab and recovery facilities at Sixways which is a really big plus for me. Getting my body right to play week in and week out is a very important area for me.

“I have always wanted to experience the Gallagher Premiership. I have heard a lot about it and in New Zealand a lot is talked about the quality of rugby that is played and how tough the competition is.

“Now I’ve got the opportunity to be part of it with Warriors and I’m really excited for the new challenge."