Wigan swoop for Lauaki

New Wigan head coach Shaun Wane has made Hull's Tongan international Epalahame Lauaki his first signing.

The 27-year-old prop or second rower has joined the Warriors on a three-year contract and plugs the gap on the club's overseas quota caused by the return to Australia of Ryan Hoffman.

Wane said: "He is a tough physical player who can play at either prop or in the second row and I'm sure he will flourish in our Wigan system. His size makes him a threat to any side and he also has a great offload. He will certainly add firepower to our squad for the forthcoming season."

Lauaki, who represented Tonga in the 2008 World Cup, made 54 appearances for Hull after joining them from New Zealand Warriors in 2009.

Lauaki, who has returned to the country after receiving a new visa, said: "I am really looking forward to be joining such a big name in the game as the Wigan Warriors.

"This is a great opportunity for me and I feel very proud and honoured to become a part of the Wigan squad as the team look to build on their achievements of the last couple of seasons."