Leicester Tigers have agreed a deal to sign Otago Highlanders and New Zealand back row Craig Newby at the end of the current season.

The flanker, who has previously had a brief spell with Newcastle Falcons, was capped three times by the All Blacks between 2004 and 2006.

“I know a lot about the history of the club and that’s one of the reasons I chose Leicester,” said the 28-year-old.

“I think I’ll suit the English game, it’s quite a physical forward style.”

He added: “The way Leicester run the club was very important to me.

“There’s a family nature to Tigers. I’ve got a young family and I’m looking to add to it, so that was one of the biggest things for me.

Craig is an outstanding player and he is a leader Marcelo Loffreda

“It’ll be a change of lifestyle and we’re looking forward to experiencing a different culture.”

Tigers head coach Marcelo Loffreda added: “Craig is an outstanding player in Super 14 rugby and he is a leader.

“He is a versatile and talented player who can play across the back row.

“That is important to us as we look at competition for places in the squad in three tournaments during a long season.”

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