Rugby, Australian Football: Sale sign Tongan WC center Payne

Sale have signed Tongan World Cup centre John Payne.

The former NSW Waratah player will arrive in Britain over the new year weekend and join his new team-mates on January 3.

Sharks rugby director Philippe Saint-Andre admitted Payne is short of match practice but expects him to be a useful addition to the squad.

"John will have to prove his fitness when he arrives under the watchful eye of Nick Johnston (fitness coach), and I expect him to be challenging for a first-team spot in the very near future," he told the club's website, www.salesharks.com.

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