Chiefs sign more 'experience'

The back-to-back Super Rugby champions, the Chiefs, have signed well-travelled forwards Kane Thompson and Ross Filipo for next year's campaign.

Thirty-one year old Thompson returns to the Chiefs after missing the 2013 season while in Japan with the Canon Eagles.

Filipo extends his time with the Chiefs, having been with the side last season.

Samoan international Thompson and four-Test All Black Filipo, 34, can both play at lock and in the loose forwards, providing experience and versatility for coach Dave Rennie.

Rennie said he appreciates the experience the 1.98m Super Rugby winning duo will offer his side.

"Both of these players are bloody good men and quality players who have international experience," Rennie said.

"We have had a lot of Chiefs' caps head overseas, so their experience will be invaluable."

Filipo is looking forward to another season with the current champions.

"The Chiefs are a perfect fit for my family and I," Filipo said.

"We love the Chiefs culture, the team environment and I thoroughly enjoyed the environment, work ethic and attention to detail from the coaches."

The 114kg lock, apart from his four Tests and one game for the All Blacks, has been part of the Maori All Blacks since 2005.

Filipo played two matches for the Chiefs, 45 for the Crusaders and 60 for Wellington.

He has also played for Bayonne in France and Wasps in England.

Kane Thompson is 113kg and has played 26 games for Samoa, 13 games for the Chiefs and 15 for the Highlanders.

He has played in the NPC for Southland, Hawke's Bay and Wellington.

Thompson also played for Dax in France.