Te’o looks set for a code switch to Leinster.
According to reports in this mornings Irish Independent, reiterating the news we brought you on our Facebook page over a month ago, it looks like South Sydney Rabbitoh’s star, Ben Te’o may be set for a code switch to join Pro12 Champions, Leinster.
The move is thought to be on the cusp of completion with Te’o, in the last year of his Rabbitoh’s contract, having positive talks with a Leinster delegate in Dublin earlier this month.
Leinster’s coach, Matt O’Connor, a former League player, is thought to have no reservations about Teo’s ability to switch to Union, the sport he played during his formative years in Auckland, New Zealand.
The fact that Munster did not renew Casey Laulala’s contract means, under IRFU laws, there is a vacancy for a non Irish outside centre and Leinster have earmarked Te’o to be that man, replacing the legendary Brian O’Driscoll.
Te’o, who qualifies for England through his mother, may be seen as a future Irish international, as, at 27, he is young enough to play International Rugby after fulfilling the requisite three years of residency in the country.
Renowned as a hard runner and with a well rounded offloading game, Te’o also has a reputation as a hardened defender with a penchant for big hits, as the video below shows.
Youtube Credit: NZAUTV Rugby League.
