Big hitter staying with Canes
The Hurricanes received a boost with the news that big-hitting forward Motu Matu'u has signed to stay with the franchise for another year.
The announcement follows the huge impact he made on the opposition in the Hurricanes' 66-24 win over the Rebels in Wellington at the weekend.
The Oriental-Rongotai hooker has signed on for another season with both the Hurricanes and Wellington for 2013.
In his first year of Super Rugby, the 25-year-old Matu'u has made a big impression with his powerful running and big tackles.
Lachlan Mitchell and Mark Gerrard were both casualties of Matu'u tackles.
Mitchell was knocked out and taken from the field on a stretcher, while Gerrard fractured sternum.
Coach Mark Hammett is impressed with the Matu'u's attitude and commitment in his debut year.
"There is no doubt Motu is a powerful player but it's his work away from the game and the extra training he puts in that is really impressive," Hammett said.
"He is a team player and we saw that last night after his tackle on Lachlan when he made sure he was all right before he ran on to the next phase of play. That sums up Mots."
Matu'u is excited to continue playing with the Hurricanes and Wellington Rugby for another year.
"Wellington is my home and I really wanted to play my rugby here so it's awesome to stay on with the Canes and Lions.
"The Hurricanes team and management are all about working hard and winning respect 24/7 this season so it makes it easier for a newbie to come in and makes you want to be a part of it," Matu'u says.
Matu'u had already signed with the Wellington Lions for 2012, but has now extended through for the 2013 season also.
James Te Puni, Hurricanes and Wellington Rugby CEO added, "Motu is a Wellington boy through and through and the Lions are very pleased to have him on board for next year as well. He is a proud club man and wears the Wellington jersey with pride."
