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'Landers sign key duo

Veteran loose forward Elliot Dixon , who recently inked a one season deal in Japan, and hard running midfielder Teihorangi Walden have both committed to the Highlanders for two more years.

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Dixon, who has played 88 times for the Highlanders since 2012 and was selected for the Maori All Blacks in 2012 and the All Blacks in 2016 playing 3 games, will return from Japan for the 2019 Super Rugby season and be available for the National Provincial Cup. A versatile loose forward equally at home at six, seven or eight his experience will be a valuable asset to the Highlanders in future campaigns.

Dixon is excited about the future "It’s great to get the opportunity to play a season in Japan at the end of this year. It will be a new challenge for me. I have been with the Highlanders a while now and I’m looking forward to another couple of years with them. We enjoy our lifestyle down here and the team environment  is great,"

It’s been a break out season for the twenty-four year old Walden, having started in all but one game thus far, he has also formed a potent combination in the centres with Rob Thompson. A consistent performer he was an NZ U20 player in 2013 and a Maori All Black in 2017. He made his debut for the Highlanders in 2016 playing 18 games to date.

"I’m loving my time down South with the Highlanders, I am grateful for the opportunity to be able to re-sign with this very proud club. I have been fortunate to play with and learn from some of the best in the game. I’m excited to be able to continue to grow as a player and contribute wherever I can to the Highlanders in the future" said Walden.

Highlanders CEO Roger Clark is happy with the signings: "This is another step forward for the club in putting together a competitive group for 2019 and beyond; both Elliot and Tei will provide us with the consistency and experience we are looking for in our squad,"

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