Super Rugby
Winless Highlanders sign Tuiali'i
April 2, 2013
Mose Tuiali'i of Canterbury fends Ruki Tipuna of Bay of Plenty during the Air New Zealand Cup match between Canterbury and Bay of Plenty at AAMI Stadium on September 18, 2008 in Christchurch, New Zealand.
Mose Tuiali'i is the latest recruit for Highlanders coach Jamie Joseph © Getty Images
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The struggling Highlanders have recruited former All Blacks No.8 Mose Tuiali'i for the remainder of their Super Rugby campaign.

Tuiali'i, who has been playing club rugby in Japan, was lured south by Highlanders coach Jamie Joseph as a direct replacement for Nasi Manu, whose season was ended by a foot injury.

The 32-year-old started in five of his nine Tests from 2004 to 2006 and was part of victorious Super Rugby campaigns with the Crusaders in 2005, 2006 and 2008.

He joins a Highlanders side that have lost their first five games to be in last place. Their losing streak stretches back eight games after a poor end to their 2012 campaign.

Joseph, who had a lengthy playing career in Japan, has turned to that country to fill several gaps in his Highlanders roster this year.

Other experienced players to have had stints in the Japanese club game are Neil Brew (34), Tamati Ellison (30), Jake Paringatai (32) and Brad Thorn, 38.

The Highlanders face the Blues in Auckland on Friday.

© AAP

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