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Signing of Fijian ace Radrada reflects Bears power: Lam

Nov 29, 2019

London – Fijian star Semi Radrada’s joining from Top 14 outfit Bordeaux-Begles is a sign of how attractive a proposition Premiership outfit Bristol Bears have become said their director of rugby Pat Lam.

The 27-year-old – who has proven equally effective at both rugby league and then union – signed a three year deal and will join the early Premiership pacesetters, who are bankrolled by English billionaire Stephen Lansdown, next season.

Radradra was a rare bright spark for the Fijians at the Rugby World Cup where a humiliating defeat by minnows Uruguay saw them exit in the pool stage. The wing averaged 100 metres a game and scored a brace of tries against Georgia.

During his time in the Australian NRL (National Rugby League), Radradra scored 82 tries in 94 games for Parramatta Eels.

“There is no doubt that Semi is one of the best players in the world. He’s truly a world class performer and we are so excited about what he can do for the team,” Lam told the club website.

“Every top club across both codes on the planet wanted him, so for Bristol to be able to bring in a player of his quality underlines the fantastic work that the club is doing.

“As a person and a player, he is perfect for our culture which places an emphasis on community and high performance.

“He is world class because of the relentless work and preparation he puts into his game, day in day out.

“He’s an unstoppable force.”

The former miner, who played for Toulon for a season before moving to their Top 14 rivals Bordeaux in 2018, said Bristol were the sort of progressive side he wanted to play for.

“They are one of the most exciting teams in Europe right now and the way that they are doing things is making everybody take notice,” he said.

“I visited the world class facilities at Ashton Gate and saw the progress of the new training ground — it’s a fantastic club to be joining with a bright future ahead.”

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