Bedean Alaimalo enjoying the opportunity to pull on the red and black once again

Solomon Alaimalo has led a nomadic existence on the New Zealand provincial rugby landscape, but has relished the opportunity to return to Christchurch in 2023 and play for his home province.

Making his debut for Northland before stints with Tasman, Waikato and Southland, Alaimalo made his Canterbury debut against Wellington in Round Four, and has since become a mainstay in the side, forming a formidable back three with Manasa Mataele and Chay Fihaki for the majority of this year’s Bunnings NPC.

It’s a move the 27-year-old has loved, getting back to his roots and enjoying his rugby, after playing much of the season at his beloved Sydenham Rugby Club too.

“I’ve really enjoyed being a part of this campaign.” said Alaimalo, “I’ve always wanted to (play for Canterbury), and to have it come to fruition, I’m really grateful for the coaching staff in giving me an opportunity to come back.”

A member of the Crusaders Academy out of school, Alaimalo has also enjoyed the opportunity to connect with faces both new and old in the Canterbury environment.

“It’s been great to reconnect with those familiar faces. When we’re in the academy, you get to interact with those older guys like Romano and Moods, people like Drummy too, so it’s been good to get to know them more.”

“It’s been good to connect with some of the new guys too, the likes of Ngane, Chay and Blair too, it’s a great group of boys’.”

Heading into the semi finals of the Bunnings NPC, the goal is clear for both Alaimalo and Canterbury. 

“It’d be special to have the chance to lift a title with the province I played my age grade stuff for. This group has worked so hard but we know we have to earn it this week in order to be here again next week.”

Alaimalo starts on the left wing in Canterbury’s Bunnings NPC semi final with Taranaki, with kick off 7:05pm on Sky Sport.