Ben Volavola has joined the Leicester Tigers senior men’s squad for the 2024/25 season.
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The Fiji international, capable of covering multiple positions in the backs, has played over 200 professional rugby games, including 38 Test caps and two Rugby World Cups campaigns.
Volavola has spent the last seven seasons in France with Racing 92, Perpignan and most recently, Agen.
Born in Sydney, Australia, he broke into the NSW Waratahs senior squad – coached by Michael Cheika – ahead of their 2013 season after representing Australia U20s at the 2011 Junior World Championships.
On the signing, Leicester Tigers Head Coach Michael Cheika said: “We’re very pleased to be able to add a player of Ben’s experience and quality to the squad.”
“Ben’s knowledge of northern-hemisphere rugby from his time in France is a plus, and his experience at international level is invaluable. I know he’s a man of good character and will add value to our environment.”
On joining Leicester Tigers, Volavola said: “I am honoured and excited to join this club, and this talented group.”
“I’ve been waiting for the right opportunity and after speaking to (Michael), I jumped at the chance to come to Leicester and I’m excited to see what we can do this season.”
NIGEL OWENS DREAM SIX NATIONS XV:
Delving into his honourable mentions and other interviews, we’ve compiled Owens’ Six Nations dream team, necessitating six changes from his original selection.
Fullback: Israel Folau (Australia), replaced by Leigh Halfpenny (Wales)
Owens said: “For me, it’s nip and tuck between Halfpenny and Folau, next to nothing to choose between them. Leigh is brilliant because under the high ball and with his kicking at goal under pressure. He may not always break the line when running but puts his body on the line in defence and is a top-notch match-winner.”
Winger: Stuart Hogg (Scotland)
Owens said: “How can you fail to be impressed when watching Hogg play. He’s so exciting as he burst into that line and, of course, was named Six Nations player of the tournament.
“I know he’s a full-back for Scotland, but he is so quick and direct he could easily play on the wing. He reminds me a bit of Shane Williams with some of the things he does.
“When you see who is on the other wing in my team, you’ll see how they would work brilliantly in tandem.”
Outside-centre: Brian O’Driscoll (Ireland)
Owens said: “Not only is he one of the greatest centres in the history of rugby union but he’s a fantastic man off the field as well. O’Driscoll has been a wonderful ambassador for the sport and a real leader. He always respected referees and set the right example for others to follow.
“A legend of the game who conducted himself superbly, on and off the pitch.”
Inside-centre: Ma’a Nonu (New Zealand), replaced by Owen Farrell (England)
Owens praised Farrell as a player on numerous occasions.
On one occasion he wrote: “I can only speak from my own experience of refereeing him and, when I did, he was an excellent captain to deal with.
“I have a huge amount of respect for him as a player and a person. He always knew where the line was with me.
“I would say to him that he could always come and talk to me as long as it was at the right time and in the right tone and he always did that.”
Winger: Shane Williams (Wales)
Owens said: “When people ask me who is the best player I have refereed it’s pretty much an impossible task to pick one because I’ve been lucky enough to take charge of so many greats.
“But if I’m pushed, I would pick Shane for what he achieved after coming from football at 17 or 18 years of age.
“He was in the mould of Gerald Davies in how he left defenders gasping for air as he beat them with those dazzling sidesteps. Nobody would fancy defending against a back three of Shane, Hogg and Folau, I can tell you that.”