Rumors that World Cup flyhalf Kurt Morath was being eyed by the Utah Warriors have turned out to be correct. Tonga’s all-time leading points scorer will join leading try-scorer Fetu’u Vainikolo in Salt Lake City for the 2018 Major League Rugby regular season. The move was confirmed by match commentators on Friday evening’s game against the Ontario Arrows at Rio Tinto Stadium.

Morath is already familiar with USA rugby fans after a standout season with the San Diego Breakers during the 2016 PRO Rugby season. With 30 international caps including trips to the 2011 and 2015 World Cups the 33-year-old brings considerable experience and vital goal kicking prowess to the Warriors. Most recently he has been playing professionally in Japan with Tokyo Gas.

Also due to arrive in the coming days is Eagles forward David Tameilau. With Narbonne relegated from the French Pro D2 to the semi-pro Fédérale 1 division he is free to leave the club following the end of their season next weekend. Cousin and clubmate Siaosi Mahoni has also been linked with Utah but the potential move has not yet been confirmed.