Castres sign Tuatara-Morrison on three-month deal

26 August 2014 11:46

French Top 14 side Castres have parachuted in Australia back Chris Tuatara-Morrison on a three month deal as cover for injured former All Black Sitiveni Sivivatu.

"It was important to shore up the squad in the centre quickly following Sivivatu's (shoulder) injury," Castres general manager Matthias Rolland said in a statement.

He added: "Chris is a genuine player, a good defender and he has the required attacking qualities to fit in to the style of play developed by the coaches."

The 27-year-old Tuatara-Morrison joins Castres from Perth-based Western Force, replacing Sivivatu who is sidelined for over three months after shoulder surgery.

The 32-year-old Fiji-born wing -- capped 48 times -- was Castres' headline signing during the close season when he agreed a three-year contract on leaving rivals Clermont.

He suffered from a shoulder problem while at Clermont last season, which was reflected in his poor return of just four tries.

Castres, who were beaten in the Top 14 final by European champions Toulon last season, were routed 35-6 by Toulouse on Friday.

Source: AFP