"Explosive" winger the latest player to sign for Worcester Warriors

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WORCESTER Warriors have announced the signing of an "explosive" wing from Harlequins.

23-year-old Roma Zheng has become the latest player to be announced by the team, as they build a formidable side for next year's rebranded and expanded RFU second tier.

Zheng is the 25th player to be announced in what will likely be a 32-man squad.

The English-Chinese wing took a more unorthodox route to elite rugby, not attending a rugby school or being part of any academy set-up until 2023.

Zheng played his rugby at Warrington RUFC growing up, making a single appearance for the first team before moving to Cardiff Metropolitan University in 2020 alongside his studies.

Suiting up for the university's BUCS Super Rugby team, Zheng showcased his abilities, crossing the whitewash 21 times across his first two years in the competition.

In 2022, he would go on to be selected in the England Student's side, picking up a win against French Universities.

In 2023, Zheng signed for Harlequins, going on to make his debut in the Premiership Rugby Cup, scoring a try as the side took victory against Hartpury University.

He has appeared for both Harlequins and London Scottish on dual registration in his two seasons with the side.

Last month it was confirmed that Zheng was one of 18 players to leave the side, in a list that included club legend Danny Care.

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Speaking on the move, Zheng said: "Seeing the recent success in season ticket sales reinforced the fact that the fan base is extremely strong for Worcester Warriors.

"Getting the opportunity to contribute to the success of the club is truly exciting."

Worcester Warriors head coach Matt Everard considers Zheng to be an exciting talent, particularly because of his mentality and desire to improve.

He added: "Roma's ability to beat defenders is a very exciting point of difference.

"Fast, balanced and very explosive - he has caused defences big headaches throughout this season and has finished some superb solo tries.

"Roma's hunger to improve really stood out when we met, a mindset we will have throughout the club."

Zheng is the third player to have signed for Warriors that calls the wing his primary position - alongside Josh Bassett and Alife Garside.

He is the 25th player in total to sign ahead of Warriors return season. Alongside the trio, the club have also announced the signings of: James Tyas, Will Trewin, Louis Brown, Fraser Balmain, Will Reed, Billy Twelvetrees, Tim Hoyt, Tim Anstee, Archie Vanes, Tiff Eden, Juan Gonzalez, Billy Keast, Rory Taylor, Lloyd Williams, Jake Garside, Livai Natave, Matt Kvesic, Thabo Ndimande, Will Lane, Will Biggs, Côme Joussain and Callum Smyth.