THEO McFarland: Moamoa Rooster rugby player and former basketball player signs for England

Theo McFarland, who has played both international basketball and rugby union for Samoa, signed a long-term contract with English Premiership side Saracens on Tuesday.

The 25-year-old second row forward has played two Tests, emerging victorious in both over Tonga.

McFarland's most recent club rugby has been with the Dallas Jackals in the USA.

McFarland, who stands 6 feet 6 inches tall (1.98 metres) and weighs in at 115kg, said it was an honour to be signed by a club that boasts five Premiership titles and three European Champions Cup trophies.

He said: “When I heard I was gonna join the Saracens I was buzzing. It’s a huge honour to be looked at by one of the top rugby clubs in the world. Not everyone gets a chance to play for a club like Saracens. I can’t wait to join the pack and be part of the Sarries family.”

Saracens' director of rugby Mark McCall, who guided them back to the top tier after they were relegated due to repeated breaches of the salary cap, said McFarland is full of as yet untapped potential.

"We are excited to watch Theo develop here at Saracens," he said.

"He is clearly a very talented athlete and we will look to unlock his potential during what we hope will be a very successful period for him."

Saracens kick off the new Premiership season away to Bristol on 17 September.