Former Flying Fijians flyhalf Ben Volavola has signed a contract with the Leicester Tigers for the 2024/25 season. The Premiership Rugby club announced the signing on Monday.
Volavola, hailing from Tailevu, is versatile, capable of playing both flyhalf and fullback. He has accumulated over 200 professional rugby appearances, which include 38 Test caps and participation in two Rugby World Cups for Fiji.
For the past seven seasons, he has played in France with teams such as Racing 92, Perpignan, and most recently, Agen. Leicester Tigers head coach Michael Cheika expressed his enthusiasm about adding Volavola to the team, highlighting his experience and the insights he brings from northern-hemisphere rugby.
“Ben’s knowledge of northern-hemisphere rugby from his time in France is a plus, and his experience at international level is invaluable. I know he is a man of good character and will add value to our environment,” Cheika said.
Volavola also shared his excitement about joining the Tigers, noting he had been waiting for the right opportunity. “I am honoured and excited to join this club and this talented group. I jumped at the chance to come to Leicester and I’m eager to see what we can achieve this season,” he stated.
Originally from Sydney, Australia, Volavola began his professional career with the NSW Waratahs, where he was coached by Cheika. He joined the senior squad ahead of the 2013 season after representing the Australia U20 team at the 2011 Junior World Championships.