Talakai 'a proven performer', says Smith

Franco Smith believes Glasgow Warriors have signed "a proven performer" in Sam Talakai.

The Australia-capped tighthead prop, 32, is expected to arrive over the next few weeks.

"Sam is a proven performer who we believe can add to our squad this season," Smith told the Warriors' website.

"To play 100 matches in Super Rugby shows the consistently high levels of performance he brings, and to have someone with that experience in our squad that our young, Scottish-qualified front-rowers can learn from can only benefit both the club and Scottish rugby in the long term.

“Adding Sam also allows us to manage the workload of our senior international front-rowers, across what will be a long and physical season."