Listen & read
Ben Tameifuna, the towering prop for Bordeaux-Begles, reveals his close brush with the Gallagher Premiership, naming Harlequins and Wasps as clubs he considered joining. Here’s why this revelation could change perceptions about his career path.
Tameifuna, now a Tongan international and one of rugby’s most formidable props, initially honed his skills in rugby league before transitioning to union. His journey began with Hawke’s Bay, leading to Super Rugby success with the Chiefs and a call-up to the All Blacks. At 130kg, he was the heaviest player in the All Blacks training camp, where he learned the strict culture of the team firsthand.
In a recent podcast, Tameifuna shared a memorable moment with Richie McCaw, who advised him on the importance of wearing black boots as an All Black. “That’s how it is. I guess that’s the rules,” he recalled, recognizing the standards upheld by the legendary team.
Though Tameifuna never made the Test squad, he has made nearly 50 appearances for Tonga and won the 2025 Investec Champions Cup with Bordeaux. Despite his success, he still expresses a desire to experience the English game, hinting that the door isn’t fully closed on a future move to the Premiership.
Comments (0)