And Otago has also secured the services of an Italian international for the season as it looks to bolster its locking stocks following the departure of Tom Franklin. Otago yesterday announced Zingari-Richmond lineout forward Tom Rowe and Italian lock Josh Furno have been contracted for the Mitre 10 campaign. The 27-year-old Furno has played 37 games for Italy and will be joining Otago this month having played for the Italian club Zebre in the Guinness Pro12 competition this season. "I’m delighted to be joining Otago," Furno said in a press release. Rowe, a former junior Tall Black, made two appearances for Otago last season and strong club form led to the contract offer this season.

Source: Otago Daily Times June 30, 2017 18:33 UTC