Harlequins sign Titi Lamositele to fill prop role vacated by Will Collier
Harlequins have confirmed Montpellier’s Titi Lamositele as their tighthead prop recruit to replace the departing Will Collier.
Samoa prop Lamositele won three Premiership titles and three European Cup crowns in five years at Saracens, before claiming the 2021 Challenge Cup and 2022 French Top 14 title at Montpellier.
The 29-year-old’s summer arrival will add ballast to Quins’ tight game, offsetting the loss of scrum master Collier to Castres.
Washington-born Lamositele won 32 caps for the USA before switching allegiance to Samoa in time for the 2023 Rugby World Cup.
“I’ve known Titi since my time coaching with USA Rugby and I've followed his progress closely throughout his career,” said Quins rugby director Billy Millard.
“He’s a very experienced and dynamic tighthead, who has achieved great success at club and international level and brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to our front-row.
“He’s a hard-working, tough ball carrier, who adds plenty of power to our scrum and will be ready to make a good impact next season.”
Homegrown scrum cornerstone Collier’s summer exit will be keenly felt at Quins, as much for his set-piece excellence as his long-standing link to The Stoop. The 33-year-old has made more than 200 Quins appearances since his 2011 debut, winning two England caps.
The Harlequins coaches consider him among the world’s very best scrum technicians, and he has also supported the west London club all his life.
Former Saracens star Lamositele’s capture though represents a strong replacement and a potent front-row operator who knows exactly what to expect in the Premiership.
“I’m excited to be joining Quins,” said Lamositele. “I’ve been impressed with the rugby they have played this season, and I can’t wait to return to the Premiership and link up with my new team-mates.
“I’ve enjoyed my time in France but I’m excited for this new chapter and I can’t wait to pull on the quarters and play in front of a packed Quins crowd.”
