New home for Villa

The hulking prop forward, renowned for his explosive style of play, will link up with his new teammates in London next week on a two-year deal.

Villasanti joined Cronulla Sharks mid way through the 2006 season from New Zealand Warriors and has this week been released from his contract at Cronulla to enable the move.

The Canberra-born Villasanti, who had stints at Wests Tigers and Balmain, spent five years with the New Zealand Warriors before joining the Sharks midway through last season.

The former Kangaroo became the first New Zealand Warriors player to play for Australia in 2003. He also played for the Junior Kiwis and represented Tonga in the 2000 World Cup.

Richard will link up with former Warriors' team-mate and prop forward, Karl Temata.

Quins RL head Coach Brian McDermott is delighted to add more firepower up front: "Richard will add immense strength and experience to what is already a very competent pack of forwards."

"He is just the type of player we have been looking for and I am delighted he is joining us."

"We will be continuing to bolster the squad with the right calibre of person, but as I have stated many times, it must be the right person."

Richard began playing rugby league at the age of ten, starting out in the round ball game.

Harlequins RL v Salford City Reds, 6pm Saturday 17th February, Twickenham Stoop

Supporters can still purchase a 2007 Quins RL Season Ticket from just £99!

Book match tickets to the first home game from just £12 either online or on the phone 020 8410 6000.