Harlequins score an All Black lock

NEC Harlequins have announced the signing of New Zealand lock Simon Maling, who will make the move to London from Otago early next month.

Quins are currently languishing at the foot of the Zurich Premiership table having lost all six of their games this season, and the arrival of the 29-year-old forward is sure to bolster their flagging title hopes.

Maling has won 11 caps for the All Blacks after making his debut in June 2002, with his last test appearance being this summer against South Africa in the Tri-Nations match in Johannesburg.

He has represented the Highlanders in the Super 12 and Otago in New Zealand's domestic NPC competition.

"We have made no secret of the fact that we have been looking to supplement our resources in the second row for some time now," said Quins boss Mark Evans.

"Simon is an excellent line-out specialist and brings a wealth of experience with him into the squad.

"I have every confidence that he will help to get our season back on track after the disappointing start we have made. His arrival coincides with some very important matches for us in the Zurich Premiership during November."

Maling will remain with Quins until the end of the European season. He will then head for to Japan after agreeing a three-year deal with Suntory.

He expects to make a debut for the Japanese club next May, joining former All Blacks Pita Alatini and Alama Ieremia.