Top 14: Montpellier sign All Black prop Karl Tu’inukuafe

Lawrence Nolan
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All Black prop Karl Tu’inukuafe is set to play for Montpellier in the Top 14 from October 1, after completing this year’s Rugby Championship.

Tu’inukuafe has already had a stint in France, having played at Narbonne in the 2015/16 season. That spell ended somewhat unhappily, with Narbonne critical of Tu’inukuafe’s performance.

Kickstart

It was either a misjudgement or a kick up the backside, for Tu’inukuafe was in an All Black jersey three years after having excelled at the Chiefs.

He has been at the Blues since 2019 where he has been one of the cornerstones of Auckland’s improvements over the past four years. Aged only 29, as a prop, his best and strongest years might still be ahead.

He will certainly add both bulk and mobility to a Montpellier pack that promises to be among France and the Top 14‘s very best next season.

Internationals