Rebels sign Japan's Mafi for next Super Rugby season

04 August 2016, 12:00AM

The Melbourne Rebels have signed Japan's Amanaki Mafi for the next Super Rugby season to complement Sean McMahon in the team's back row.

The Tongan-born No. 8 made four appearances for Japan, including scoring two tries, at the 2015 Rugby World Cup and played a crucial role in the historic 34-32 victory over South Africa by providing the key pass on the winning try.

Rebels coach Tony McGahan said Thursday that "as we saw at the World Cup, Amanaki makes his presence felt, whether he's starting the game or off the bench."

Mafi is now playing with the NTT Communications club in Japan and will join the Rebels at the end of the Top League season.

-AP