Leinster have today announced the signing of New Zealand second row Hayden Triggs from the Auckland Blues on a deal that will last until the end of the season.
The experienced second row and former army mechanic, 33, has over 80 appearances in Super Rugby where he's scored ten tries, he's also played in Japan. Although Triggs hasn't been capped by the All Blacks, he has represented the Maori side nine times including two appearances against the Irish Wolfhounds in 2007 and the full Irish side in 2010.
One player who'll be happy to see the arrival of Triggs will be Johnny Sexton, the fly half featured in both games against the Maori's and was on the losing side on both occasions.
The news comes at a good time for Leinster who have just lost Mike McCarthy to the World Cup and Mick Kearney to injury.
Triggs delivered a series of impressive performances for the Blues during his two seasons there and seems like the kind of player who gets better with age.
New Leinster coach Leo Cullen was delighted to add someone so experienced to his squad, adding that he's looking forward to the increased competition the Kiwi's arrival will bring.
Hayden brings a wealth of experience to the squad at a time when we have a large chunk of our squad away at the Rugby World Cup. We look forward to welcoming him into the group in the next day or so.
Hayden's arrival is timely. Tom Denton, Ross Molony, Tadhg Beirne and Gavin Thornbury have all been pushing hard to get in the team and Hayden will add some good experience and further competition for places
Triggs has a reputation for being a tough player and was red carded earlier this year following a punch up with Duane Vermeulen, he is also capable of putting in a massive hits like this one below. Could he become a cult hero at the RDS?
[Leinster Rugby]
