Leicester Tigers sign USA hooker Joe Taufete'e

Leicester Tigers have announced that USA hooker Joe Taufete'e ahead of the 2022/23 season.

The 29-year-old previously played for Worcester Tigers between 2016 and 2020 and went on to make over 50 appearances for them before switching to Lyon in 2020 and Major League Rugby club LA Giltinis in 2022.

Taufete’e has 34 USA caps to his name and is the all-time record-holder for most Test tries by a hooker with 22.

“To join a historical club like Leicester Tigers and add my name to into the history of a club like this means to me a great deal," he told the club's official website.

“I know how it is and what it means to be a Tiger, to push yourself to extremes.

“I have seen how the program has grown since Steve Borthwick took over and I am excited to be playing under his guidance.”

Leicester Tigers head coach Steve Borthwick welcomed Taufete'e to the club ahead of the new season.

“We are really pleased to be able to add a player of Joe’s experience, in not only the Premiership but also international rugby, to Leicester Tigers.”

“He is a powerful player, in attack and defence, and adds competition to our hooking ranks at the club ahead of the new season.

“Joe is an impressive young man who has shown a hunger to want to be a part of our club and contribute to Leicester Tigers, on and off the field, as well as competing at the highest level of Premiership and European rugby.”