Saracens bring in Fa'atiga Lemalu on short-term deal from Sunwolves

Saracens have signed Samoan vice-captain Fa'atiga Lemalu on a short-term deal from Japanese Super Rugby side Sunwolves.

The lock-forward joins the team with immediate effect to bolster their second-row options after it was confirmed that Saracens’ England man George Kruis will be rule out for 12-weeks with a knee injury.

“Fa’atiga is an international lock forward entering the prime of his career,” said Saracens director of rugby Mark McCall.

“With the unfortunate injury to George Kruis we are very happy to have the opportunity to bring in a player of his ability into the set-up. It’s a new challenge for him and he is excited to have the chance to test himself in the Aviva Premiership and Champions Cup.”

Lemalu made his full international debut for Samoa against Tonga in 2012 and has won 18 caps for the Pacific Island nation.