Ex-Japan star Amanaki Mafi joins Newcastle Falcons

Former Japan star and free agent Amanaki Mafi has joined English Gallagher Prem side Newcastle Falcons on a one-year deal.

Tonga-born Mafi, 35, who starred for Japan at the 2015 and 2019 World Cup tournaments, left division one side Yokohama Canon Eagles in May.

The Falcons, who finished bottom (10th) last season in England's top-flight, are in the process of being purchased by Red Bull who are set to add the club to their vast sporting portfolio which includes a Formula 1 team and German football club RB Leipzig.

Former Shining Arcs, Bath, Rebels and Sunwolves number eight Mafi made 15 appearances last season for Yokohama – alongside Springboks stars Faf de Klerk and Jesse Kriel - and scored five tries.  

Picture courtesy of JRLO

The ex-Tonga youth international finished the season in fifth-place for carries (217) and gained 534 metres. He contributed 10 offloads and beat 44 defenders.

The Hanazono University graduate, who is the 15th of 16 children, earned cult hero status for his adopted homeland after he assisted Karne Hesketh’s match-winning try against the Springboks at the 2015 World Cup.

Commenting on the arrival of the 6ft 2in (189cm), 17-stone (112 kg) powerhouse, Newcastle’s Director of Rugby Steve Diamond said: “Amanaki is a big ball carrier with great footwork and an offloading game, and someone who will get our fans off their seats.

“He makes impacts in both attack and defence, he will bring others into the game and I see this as a really significant signing for us.”

Newcastle’s fourth summer signing Mafi, who has won 29 caps for Japan, said: “It’s a real honour to join a club like Newcastle Falcons.

“I’m grateful for the opportunity and excited for what lies ahead. I’m ready to work hard, learn, and do whatever I can to help the team.”

Mafi joins former Ospreys hooker George McGuigan, Scottish lock Jamie Hodgson and ex-Gloucester forward Freddie Clarke as new arrivals at Kingston Park.

Newcastle will open their season in the Prem Rugby Cup against Harlequins on Friday 12 September.