Kiwis hold onto some 'stars'
Thu, 21 Aug 2008 08:50
The New Zealand Rugby Union (NZRU) have re-signed a group of Super 14 players for up to three years, temporarily halting the exodus of top players to cash-flush European clubs.
Three players – Sean Maitland, Steven Setephano and Benson Stanley – have extended their contracts to 2011.
Twelve other players have re-signed with the NZRU to 2010: Tim Boys, Jacob Ellison, Kurtis Haiu, David Hall, Faifili Levave, Johnny Leota, Serge Lilo, Jason Macdonald, George Pisi, Willie Ripia, Onosa'i Tololima-Auva'a and Fetu'u Vainikolo. Nick White has also re-signed with the NZRU until 2009.
NZRU General Manager of Professional Rugby Neil Sorensen said the re-signing of the 16 players was worthy of note.
"All these players have played in the Super 14 and are a mix of youth and experience. With overseas offers an attractive lure for our players, we don't underestimate how important it is that the guys have all indicated that they want to continue playing rugby here," he said.
"Our franchises also deserve credit for creating a supportive environment and pathway which gives the chance for our players to develop. These players are clearly enjoying their rugby and they still have a lot to offer the game here, which is encouraging for the future of rugby in New Zealand," Sorensen added.
Three of the players have represented New Zealand in 2008.
Maitland was in the world champion New Zealand Under-20 side, while Ellison and Ripia were members of the unbeaten New Zealand Maori team that won the International Rugby Board (IRB) Pacific Nations Cup in July.
