Nadolo returning to the Waratahs
Fijian-australian powerhouse Nemani Nadolo is set to join the Waratahs on a one-year deal next season.
Twelve years after he was cut adrift by NSW, the Sigatoka-born, Brisbane-raised wing will join test fullback Kurtley Beale in a return to Daceyville to add international class and devastating power to the Waratahs backline in 2023.
The 30-test Fiji international has scored 15 tries in 33 appearances so far for UK Premiership side Leicester, becoming a cult hero among the club’s fans and attracting singular praise from revered coach Steve Borthwick, who said of Nadolo: ‘‘He can do things that I have not seen before’’.
In an indication of his potential value to a Waratahs backline that is still finding its feet, Nadolo’s presence at Welford Road is credited with bringing through top young backs Guy Porter and Harry Potter – both of whom, incidentally, are Australian. His 195cm, 138kg frame won’t go astray, either, if the Waratahs want to take their promising 2022 form to the next level.
The Waratahs are not expected to confirm Nadolo’s signing for some time as the 34-year-old is still on contract with UK Premiership side Leicester and will leave them midway through the next European season.
He will arrive in Australia towards the end of this year and likely be on duty for the back-half of the 2023 pre-season.
Meanwhile, prop Harry JohnsonHolmes may not play another game this season for the Waratahs after suffering a knee injury in his team’s 24-21 win over the Crusaders.
Coleman confirmed yesterday morning Johnson-holmes would not travel with the team tomorrow ahead of a clash against Moana Pasifika on Saturday.