Sitaleki Timani, born on September 19, 1986, is a Tongan-born Australian rugby union player known for his powerful performances as a lock. His professional career spans eight seasons in France's Top 14 and seven seasons in Super Rugby in Australia. Currently, he plays for RC Toulonnais in the Top 14.
Timani comes from a rugby-oriented family, with his brothers Sione and Lopeti also representing their respective national teams. He was born in the Tongan village of Kolonga and later moved to Australia. At Liahona High School, he transitioned from soccer to rugby union.
His talent led to his selection for the Tongan Schoolboys rugby team in 2003, and he earned a scholarship to attend Auckland Grammar School in New Zealand.
In 2006, Timani switched codes and played rugby league for the Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks in the NRL's Jersey Flegg competition. He returned to rugby union in August 2007, joining Perth Spirit in the Australian Rugby Championship.
Timani made his Super Rugby debut for the Western Force in 2008, and in 2009, he moved to the Brumbies. His performances earned him a spot in the NSW Waratahs' development contract, and he became a regular starter in the 2011 season.
Having the option to represent both Tonga (by birth) and Australia (by residency), Timani chose to play for Australia and made his Wallabies debut against Samoa in 2011.
This decision rendered him ineligible to play for Tonga and cost him a chance to participate in the 2011 Rugby World Cup.
In 2013, Timani signed a three-year deal with Montpellier in France. He later joined Clermont, where he played over 100 matches. In 2021, Timani returned to Australia and rejoined the Western Force for the Super Rugby AU competition.
Off the field, Timani married Angela Kelava in December 2012. His journey from a soccer-playing goalkeeper in Tonga to an accomplished rugby player represents resilience and determination.
Despite early challenges and setbacks, Timani has established himself as a formidable lock in both domestic and international rugby, leaving a lasting impact on the teams he represents.
KG(07/07/2023)
Career
 |
Brive No 4 Lock |
2023 - present |
 |
ACT Brumbies No 4 Lock |
2009 - 2010 |
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NSW Waratahs No 4 Lock |
2011 - 2013 |
 |
Montpellier No 4 Lock |
2013 - 2016 |
 |
Barbarians No 4 Lock |
2018 - 2018 |
 |
Clermont Auvergne No 4 Lock |
2016 - 2021 |
 |
Western Force No 4 Lock |
2008 - 2023 |
 |
RC Toulon Left Wing |
2022 - 2023 |
 |
Stade Francais No 4 Lock |
2023 - 2023 |
 |
Australia No 4 Lock |
2011 - 2023 |
