Jack takes Tasman captaincy

Former All Black lock Chris Jack will captain Tasman in New Zealand's national provincial rugby competition.

Jack replaces last year's skipper, Andrew Goodman, who has moved to play in Japan and the 31-year-old was looking forward to the role despite having little captaincy experience. "I wasn't thinking about the captaincy but the more I think about it now the more excited I am," he said.

Tasman also confirmed that Queensland Reds No.8 Poutasi Luafutu and Auckland hooker Francis Smith were their final two imports for this year's competition.

Leinster have announced the signings of Ulster scrum-half Isaac Boss and lock Ed O'Donoghue on two and three-year deals respectively.

The Magners League franchise have also secured a number of youngsters on development deals, with Ireland U20 skipper Rhys Ruddock joined in signing by Brendan Macken, Jack McGrath, Niall Morris, Rhys Ruddock, Paul Ryan and Eoin Sheriff.

Toulon have signed a one-year deal with flanker Mehdi Merabet following his release by Racing Metro. The 24-year-old had been set to join Montauban prior to their administrative relegation from the Top 14.

The Ospreys have signed former Ireland U18 fullback Ross Jones on a development contract. The 18-year-old, born in Llanelli, spent last season with Leinster's age-grade side.

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