Gloucester sign Tongan Test prop Sila Puafisi

Gloucester Rugby have announced the signing of Tongan tighthead prop Sila Puafisi with immediate effect.
The 25-year-old made his Test debut in 2011 and has been part of the Tongan squad for the recent Autumn internationals starting against Wales at the Millennium Stadium last Friday.
Moving to Kingsholm from NPC side Tasman Makos, he is expected to make his debut for the Cherry and Whites shortly once his visa has been approved.
Director of Rugby Nigel Davies said: “We identified Sila as a possible addition to the squad and I’m very pleased that we have been able to bring him in.
“It’s taken quite a lot of work, the work behind the scenes in these cases can often be quite lengthy. But he’s been in fine form in the ITM Cup and for Tonga, and I’m confident that we have added a quality player to the squad.
“Having Lua (Lokotui) and Sione (Kalamafoni) here already has been a big help. Sila has been able to find out more about Gloucester from them and, in turn, they’ve confirmed that we’ve got the right man.
“His arrival will allow our front row options to be deeper and also create competition in that position, which can only be a good thing going forward.”