KEY POINTS:
Chiefs and Auckland five-eighths Tasesa Lavea has signed to play for Counties Manukau from next year.
Lavea will complete his final Air New Zealand Cup season for Auckland this season before joining Counties Manukau for two years from 2008.
The 26-year-old former Kiwis and Melbourne Storm representative follows former Chiefs lock Dave Duley to the province, along with England and Japan-based Seone Kepu.
Counties Manukau coach Kevin Putt believed Lavea, usually a first five-eighth but who was employed at second five-eighth for the Chiefs during the Super 14, was an important signing.
"Tasesa is a quality player, a good person, a good professional and good leader. He's a naturally gifted footballer with attacking flair, a good kicking game and strong defence," Putt said.
"He is equally home at first or second five and will be a fantastic asset on and off the field for Counties Manukau."
- NZPA
