Ospreys coach: Ex-Saitama wing Marika Koroibete is an explosive talent

Ospreys head coach Mark Jones has billed new signing Marika Koroibete as an ‘explosive talent’ after the Australian wing made the surprise move from Saitama to Swansea.

Former Wallabies standout Koroibete, 34, was a free agent after leaving Atsushi Kanazawa’s third-place play-off winners the Wild Knights in June.

The dual-code star spent five seasons in Kumagaya, scoring 31 tries in 68 games including a crucial try in their 2022 League One final win over Suntory Sungoliath (below).

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Koroibete joins compatriots and fellow new arrivals Lalakai Foketi, Liam Wright and Lawson Creighton as part of a squad overhaul for their move to St Helen's next season after leaving the Swansea.com Stadium which they shared with EFL Championship club Swansea City.

"I think I speak for everyone involved with the club when I say how happy we are to have added such an explosive talent to our squad,” said former Wales international Jones whose side finished 11th last season.

“I think it says a lot about the club that we are still able to attract overseas players of his calibre."

Koroibete last played for the Wallabies in September 2024 and is understood to be considering a switch to represent his native Fiji in time for next year’s World Cup.

The two-time winner of the John Eales Medal scored three tries in 13 appearances in his final season in Japan. His Category C spot (Test player for a country other than Japan) will go to incoming compatriot Mark Nawaqanitawase in the 2026-2027 season.

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Jones highlighted the Australian’s experience and the impact he can have on the club’s young talent.

"Most importantly, he came with glowing references, not only in what he offers on the pitch, but also in his history as a mentor to the players around him,” said the former Crusaders backs coach.

“We feel his experience will be extremely beneficial to our youngsters and will have a real ripple effect on their development over the next few years."

Koroibete said: "I'm really happy to be joining the Ospreys, I've heard some great things from the boys here already about the team and the environment, so I can't wait to get started.

"The Ospreys are a club known around the world, with a rich history. Some incredible overseas players have played here, Jerry Collins, Justin Marshall, Marty Holah, the list goes on. It's a real privilege to be joining this club and to be following in the footsteps of some greats of the game.

"I spoke to Mark prior to making my decision and he was very clear in what he expects of me in my work on the pitch and my work off it. There are some young, high-potential players in this squad and if I can play a part in helping them to reach the next level of their game, then that is something I will take pride in doing."

The Ospreys will start their URC campaign away against the Sharks in South Africa on Saturday 26 September.

Koroibete’s new side will play their first game at the redeveloped St Helen's against the Dragons in round four on Saturday 24 October.