Faced with the prolonged absences of Baptiste Delaporte and Baptiste Cope, Castres Olympique was quick to react. The Tarn club announces the arrival of Izaiha Moore-Aiono, 24-year-old New Zealand third row, as a medical joker. A reinforcement of weight to compensate for the injuries in the blue and white squad.
An explosive profile from Saracens
Izaiha Moore-Aiono comes straight from Saracens, where he has played three matches this season, including one start. A Samoan international, he also shone this summer during the Pacific Nations Cup, lining up as a starter with his selection.
He scored twice against Tonga after crossing Italy’s chalk line in a summer test.
With an athletic build (1.83 m and 103 kg), Moore-Aiono is renowned for his mobility, speed and explosiveness. Qualities which will be a plus for the Castres training.
A decimated third line
Injuries to Delaporte and Cope left a void in the squad. With the sequence of competitions and the intensity of the Top 14, strengthening the third line was a priority for the Castres staff.
Moore-Aiono brings his international experience and his experience with Saracens. He had also worn the colors of London Irish, participating in several Premiership Rugby Cup matches.
The return of a child from the club: Simon Meka
In parallel with the arrival of Izaiha Moore-Aiono, the CO recalled Simon Meka, currently on loan to SC Albi in the National. At 24, the man who joined Castres at the age of 16 will take advantage of the championship break to rejoin the group. A return which will complete the rotation in the third line and compensate for absences.
