Iopu-Aso added to Hurricanes roster

The Hurricanes roster is starting to fill up as the Super Rugby pre'-season draws near.

Taranaki loose forward Iopu Iopu-Aso is the latest to join the franchise.

The Auckland born 23-year-old has signed a two-year deal with the Hurricanes on the back of a strong 2014 NPC season. stamping his mark with Taranaki.

Also a former New Zealand Sevens representative, Iopu-Aso has previously worked with Hurricanes assistant coach Clark Laidlaw in both the Taranaki environment, and at the province's Spotswood franchise.

Laidlaw said Iopu-Aso was a skilful player with a physical presence and speed to match, and believed he would have no trouble transferring those skills to Super Rugby.

"He's really starting to make his mark in the Taranaki team and realise his own potential, so we're excited to help him make that next step in his career," Laidlaw said.

"With Jack [Lam] and Faifili [Levave] heading offshore, we think Iopu will slot in nicely alongside some of our more experienced guys in that loose forward area."

The full Hurricanes squad will be announced towards the end of this month.