All Black may take final spot in new NSW backline

Bret Harris | July 30, 2009


Article from: The Australian

NSW Waratahs are negotiating with former All Blacks winger Sosene Anesi to fill the final spot in their new-look backline for next year's Super 14 series.

Samoan-born Anesi, who played one Test for the All Blacks against Fiji in 2005, is being considered for the Waratahs' marquee import spot as a replacement for sacked Wallabies winger Lote Tuqiri.

Anesi, 28, made his Super rugby debut for the Chiefs against the Waratahs in 2005.
If the Waratahs recruited Anesi, they could move Drew Mitchell or Lachie Turner from the wing to fullback.

"We were approached by his management and he has expressed some interest about playing with the Waratahs next year," Tahs coach Chris Hickey said.
"We'll see where those talks develop over the next fortnight.

"He's a quality player. He has versatility. He can play wing, fullback, 13. He would be a really good candidate for that outside back position, but there are two or three players we are speaking to and he's one of them."

The Waratahs had previously shown interest in Wallabies winger Digby Ioane, who is yet to re-sign with Queensland Reds.

"We spoke to Digby earlier and he gave us an indication he may stay in Queensland," Hickey said. "We haven't spoken to Digby in the meantime. We are certainly looking for another outside back. If he's interested, we'd be happy to talk to him."

The Waratahs have signed former NSW under-19s outside centre Rory Sidey on a two-year contract. Sidey, who spent the last European season with Gwent Dragons in Wales, will provide the Waratahs with depth at 13 following Timana Tahu's return to rugby league.

"That's another significant signing," Hickey said. "Rory is a good young player. He is coming to us with some good experience and good performances in the Heineken Cup."

http://www.theaustralian.news.com.au...015651,00.html