Tigers lock in Kitchener

Leicester Tigers lock Graham Kitchener has agreed a new contract with the club.

Kitchener, 23, moved to Welford Road in 2011 after making 70 appearances for Worcester Warriors and has now played 25 first-team games for Tigers. He has made 11 starting appearances this season, a figure unbeaten in the Leicester squad.

A member of the England squad, Kitchener went on England's tour to South Africa last year in June and played in both midweek fixtures.

Kitchener said: “I’ve really enjoyed my time with Leicester Tigers so far and I’m happy to agree to stay with the club.

“I played in a Premiership Final and LV= Cup Final in my first season here and I’ve also played in the European Cup. I think I’ve learned a lot in my time at Leicester and I’m looking forward to continuing to develop my game here in the future.”

Leicester Tigers director of rugby Richard Cockerill said: “Graham is an ambitious young player and has come into a very competitive environment here because he wants to be the best player he can."

The length of Kitchener’s new deal is undisclosed.