Cronulla has completed the biggest signing coup of the season when it announced New Zealand Test centre Nigel Vagana would join the club in 2004 on a three year deal.

Vagana, regarded as the best finisher in the National Rugby League, was among the highest profile players on the open market.

"As a former centre I regard Nigel as one of the most dynamic centres in the game today," Sharks general manager Steve Rogers said.

"His ability to sniff out a try is second to none and I hope to be seeing a lot more of that in our colours."

Cronulla coach Chris Anderson, who is likely to confront Vagana in the New Zealand-Australia Test match on July 25, now has the strike centre he desired to complement halfback Brett Kimmorley.

"He is a great signing a proven performer at the top level and a prolific try scorer who will add a wealth of experience to a relatively young back-line and I look forward to working with him," Anderson, the Australian coach, said.

Vagana said he would now concentrate on finishing the season on a high note with the Bulldogs, the club he joined in 2001.

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