Marlborough Rugby welcome a new Player Coach with international experience

Marlborough Rugby is thrilled to welcome Halani Aulika, who will serve as both a player and coach this season. He will also be sponsored by T H Whites (Marlborough) for the season for which he is very grateful for as is the club. When wearing his coaching hat, he’ll take on the role of the club’s new “set piece coach.” The club is excited to have secured a player of his calibre and prowess to join the Marlborough setup.

Halani, originally from Tonga, began his rugby journey in New Zealand after moving there at the age of 17 in 2000. He had the call up for Tonga for the 2011 Rugby World Cup and subsequently he earned a total of 18 caps for his national side.

He then embarked on an eventful journey through various clubs. In 2011, he joined Leeds before making the move to London Irish in 2012, where he played until 2016. Following that, he spent two years with Sale Sharks before making a quick leap across the Channel to join Grenoble.

Halani’s prowess on the rugby field is indeed impressive! As a prop, he combines the strength to hold his ground in the scrum and surprisingly for a front-row player he is also known to make impactful runs and cross the try line.

Marlborough’s anticipation is well-founded! With Halani’s wealth of experience in set pieces he’ll undoubtedly be a valuable mentor to both seasoned players and emerging talent. His motivational presence on the sidelines and tactical insights during training sessions will hopefully elevate the team. And when he steps onto the pitch during game time, everyone will be eager to witness the impact he’ll make.

Marlborough Rugby is again fortunate to have not one, but two former international players—Elisi Vunipola and now Halani—on their coaching team. The anticipation for the upcoming season is palpable! Although still at level 5, the team has sidestepped into Regional 1 Tribute South West. Again, facing unfamiliar opponents, except for St Austell who previously beat Marlborough in the Papa John’s competition two years ago. Again, there will be lots of learning throughout the season, but the boys are secure in the knowledge that they have a coaching team second to none, to help guide them through the season.