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Leinster head coach Leo Cullen has backed Rieko Ioane to have an impact on and off the pitch when the 81-cap All Black arrives in Dublin next season.
It was announced on Wednesday that Ioane had signed a seven-month contract with Leinster and will emulate international teammate Jordie Barrett by testing himself in the United Rugby Championship and Investec Champions Cup.
Ioane will join up with Leinster following the Autumn Nations Series this November and Cullen believes his ability and dedication can only be a benefit to the wider squad.
“Rieko is a world-class, 81-cap All Black who has been operating at the very top level of the international game and Super Rugby for many seasons,” Cullen said.
“He is an exciting, versatile outside back who will bring pace, rugby skills and experience to Leinster. That experience will add massive value to the group here and our younger players especially will learn so much from seeing how Rieko prepares, trains and plays.
“We can’t wait to welcome Rieko to Leinster and I’m sure all our supporters will join me in making him and his family feel at home when the time comes.”
Ioane’s fellow All Black Barrett put in a player of the match performance as Leinster booked their place in the Champions Cup semi-finals with a 52-0 demolition of Glasgow Warriors last Friday, which leaves them on course for a fifth European crown following three successive final defeats.
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Leinster also sit eight points clear of Glasgow at the top of the URC table with four regular season matches to play as they chase a ninth title. It is that kind of pedigree that attracted Ioane to the Irish province.
“I’m looking forward to this exciting opportunity to play in Ireland and in Leinster, and to grow my game with such an iconic club with a rich history,” he said.
“I’m also looking forward to opening myself and my family up to new experiences away from home and to growing together in a new environment.
“I’d like to thank Leo and Leinster Rugby for the opportunity and NZRU and my Blues brothers. We’ve work to do yet this season, and I’m locked in for that, but I look forward to touching down in Dublin later this year and meeting all the Leinster supporters.”
