Back-row forward Amanaki Mafi joined Newcastle in the summer of 2025 from Japanese Top League side Canon Eagles.

The Japanese international is in his second spell in England, having previously represented Bath Rugby.

Born in Tonga, whom he represented at age-group level, Mafi moved to Japan as a teenager to attend university, spending five seasons with NTT Shining Arcs before going on to be capped by Japan at full international level.

The 6 foot 2 forward is renowned for his offloading and power game, and has played Super Rugby for Australian side Melbourne Rebels and Japan’s Sunwolves.