Quins snap up Palepoi

Harlequins have announced the signing of Samoan international second-row forward Opeta Palepoi.

Palepoi, who has won 38 caps and played in the last two World Cup tournaments, arrives at The Stoop on a one-year deal.

The deal follows an injury to Quins lock Jim Evans, who dislocated his shoulder in training last week and faces six months on the sidelines.

Palepoi, 28, has previously played for Orrell, Exeter, Glasgow and Wellington - and he will be available for Quins' Zurich Premiership opener against London Irish at Twickenham next Saturday.

"Opeta is just the kind of player we are looking for to replace the unfortunate Jim Evans," said Quins chief executive Mark Evans.

"He is very athletic and he brings a wealth of experience with him into the middle of the pack.

I am confident he will make a significant contribution to the squad over the next nine months.

"On behalf of everyone at Quins, I wish Jim all the best for a successful and speedy recovery from his shoulder injury.

"He is a very talented young player who had his sights set on cementing his place in the team this season after playing so well last year."