Former Wallabies prop Sekope Kepu has joined Christian Lealiifano as a foundation player at Moana Pasifika, for their inaugural Super Rugby Pacific campaign next year.
Ex-Brumbies playmaker Lealiifano was the first big name to formally commit to the expansion franchise, with Kepu - Australia's most capped prop - announced on Tuesday.
The 35-year-old has 110 Test caps to his name, last playing for Australia at the 2019 Rugby World Cup.
Making 141 appearances with NSW between 2008 and 2019, Kepu cut short his contract with London Irish earlier this year and shifted to New Zealand for "personal family health reasons".
He signed with NPC club Counties Manukau for the 2021 season before linking with Moana Pasifika, who will be based in Auckland.
"Kepu has played 295 professional matches since his debut in 2006 and bring with him a wealth of knowledge to impart on our exciting, young squad," Moana Pasifika announced on social media.
Moana Pasifika also confirmed the signings of Manu Samoa internationals Henry Taefu, Neria Foma'i and Tomasi Alosio.
The team will be coached by former All Blacks and Crusaders star Aaron Mauger.
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