Edinburgh Rugby add New Zealand forward Mike Coman

EDINBURGH Rugby have added another player to their squad with the signing of 25-year-old forward Mike Coman, on a two-year deal.

The 6’4” Hawke’s Bay Magpies back-rowwill join the capital club subject to visa and medical examination, and is due to join up with his new team-mates towards the end of October.

Edinburgh head coach Alan Solomons said: ““From speaking to people in New Zealand, and seeing footage of Mike in action, I believe this is a very good signing for Edinburgh Rugby.

“He has very good leadership skills, is a very solid number 8, and has all the requisite skills for that position. With his background I have no doubt that he will add value to this team, as we continue to build a solid foundation and a brighter future for this club.”

Coman first played provincial rugby for Canterbury in 2009 before joining Hawke’s Bay and the Hurricanes’ wider training squad.

The former New Zealand under-19 forward took the Mapgies to the ITM Premiership two years ago, captaining the Hurricanes in 2012 and leading the team to victory against the Reds in a summer pre-season match.

Magpies are currently second top of the Championship as they seek a return to the top flight.

Coman said he was ‘very excited’ to be signing for Edinburgh, adding: “I’ve had some great experiences with Hawke’s Bay, in particular winning the Ranfurly Shield, but the time feels right to move on and try a new challenge.

“I still have a job to do with the Magpies but I’m really excited about what lies ahead in Edinburgh.

“All the research I‘ve done tells me that it’s a club on the rise, and I can’t wait to get involved and make a positive contribution to their success.”

Article source: http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/rugby-union/22734865

Edinburgh Rugby add New Zealand forward Mike Coman