Viliame Mata signs with Bristol Bears

Fiji Water Flying Fijians number 8 Viliame Mata has signed with Bristol Bears ahead of the 2024/25 season.

Mata has made more than 100 appearances for Edinburgh, becoming the first non-Scottish qualified player to become a club centurion.

Director of Rugby, Pat Lam, says Mata is one of the most powerful and exciting back-row players in the game, so they are delighted to be bolstering our forward pack with a player of his world-class calibre next season.

Lam says while he is destructive and brings gain line on both sides of the ball, he also possesses the passing/offloading skills and experience that will add real value to their team.

Viliame Mata says he is truly grateful for the opportunity to be part of the Bristol Bears next season.

Mata says he is excited for the challenge of playing for a different team, in a different environment and a different league.

 Source: Bristol Bears