Ospreys have completed the signing of Australia centre Lalakai Foketi from Super Rugby side Chiefs for the 2026-27 season. The 31-year-old will link up with fellow Australians Ryan Smith and Liam Wright in what marks a significant recruitment for the Welsh region ahead of their upcoming campaign.

Foketi's journey spans multiple countries and competitions. Born in New Zealand before moving to Australia, he made his Super Rugby debut with Melbourne Rebels in 2014 before spells in France and New Zealand. He earned his first Wallabies cap as a replacement against Wales in November 2021 and featured three times at the 2023 World Cup in France. Most recently, he represented the First Nations and Pasifika XV against the British and Irish Lions during their 2025 tour.

His arrival follows an impressive performance for Chiefs, where he delivered three try assists in their semi-final victory over Crusaders – matching the joint highest tally by any centre in a Super Rugby match since 2020. Ospreys head coach Mark Jones praised Foketi as an experienced international who brings quality on and off the field, adding genuine attacking dimension to their backline options.

The signing strengthens Ospreys' centre partnership significantly, giving them a player with international experience and proven try-creating ability as they build toward the new season.