Graham to Leave Chiefs

Exeter Chiefs lock Romana Graham is to leave the Aviva Premiership club at the end of the season to take up a contract with French club La Rochelle.

The 27-year-old lock, who joined the Chiefs at the start of this season from Super Rugby outfit Waikato Chiefs, has agreed a two-year contract with the Pro D2 side.

To date the Hastings-born forward has featured five times for Rob Baxter's side with all of his appearances having come in Cup competition.

Confirming the arrival of Graham, La Rochelle coach Patrice Collazo said: "Romana is a player that I have followed regularly for two seasons in Super XV as well as the ITM Cup. He has had small international experience with the New Zealand Maoris and technically very strong, particularly at line-outs.

"Talking to him, Romana says he is looking forward to coming to France and we feel he will be a real asset to the team. His qualities will certainly complement the players we have in the second row, but also give us additional options in this area. We are very pleased that he is joining us for the next two seasons. "

Picture: Exeter Rugby Club/Pinnacle Photo Agency