Siale Piutau is a New Zealand-born Tongan rugby unioncentre who represents Bristol in the English Premiership. Although born and educated in New Zealand, he represented Tonga internationally from 2011 to 2019. He is the elder brother of New Zealand player Charles Piutau. Piutau was selected as Tonga's captain for the 2019 Rugby World Cup and announced his retirement from international rugby, after a win against the USA.
Playing career
Provincial Rugby
Piutau joined Counties Manukau during the 2006 Air New Zealand Cup. Over the ensuing few seasons, his solid game on both sides of the ball cemented his place in midfield for the Steelers. Lining up next to former All BlackTana Umaga in midfield, Piutau was in the 2010 ITM Cup for the Steelers. He started every game for Counties, and was one of the club's top performers over the course of the season. As a reward for his efforts, he was named the 2010 Counties Manukau Player of the Year. His season was also highlighted by the earning of his 50th cap for Counties in the final game of the year.
Piutau was included in the Chiefs Wider Training Group for the 2010 Super 14 season, and made his Super Rugby debut as a substitute late in the season after a rash of injuries hit the Chiefs backs. For the 2011 Super 15 season, Piutau was signed by the Highlanders and emerged as a key squad member, making 13 starts and scoring 3 tries. In 2012, he was limited by injuries and made only 5 appearances. Following the season, he left New Zealand to sign in Japan.
Japan
For the 2012–13 season, Piutau signed with Yamaha Jubilo of the Top League in Japan. Wasps He signed for Wasps RFC on 4 February 2016 for the remainder of the 2015/2016 season. He made his debut in the 64-23 victory over Saracens F.C. on 14 February 2016. Bristol After returning from his loan spell at Wasps, Piutau returned to Japan, and Yamaha Jubilo. He signed to play for Bristol in the Greene King IPA Championship, initially on a short-term deal, which was later extended to a permanent contract, in December 2016.
