Former All Black extends Scarlets stay

NEWS: The Scarlets has confirmed that former New Zealand and current Tonga international Vaea Fifita extended his stay with the Welsh outfit.

Joining from Wasps in England back in 2022 – the 32-year-old utility forward quickly became a fan-favourite amongst the locals in his 35 appearances for Scarlets.

His strong ball-carrying ability, athleticism and individual brilliance has been a strong feature in his game – as it was seen when he dotted down for the match-winning score against Brive in the knockout stages of the 2023 Challenge Cup.

He also topped the charts for the most lineout steals in last season’s URC.

Fifita – who was capped 11 times by New Zealand switched his allegiance to his country of birth – Tonga ahead of the 2023 World Cup.

He also has a Super Rugby title to his name being part of the victorious Hurricanes side in 2015.

Who’s excited for the new season? 👀 🏉

Diolch @vaeafifita 🤙 #YmaOHyd pic.twitter.com/mhIMEBUlli

— Scarlets Rugby (@scarlets_rugby) August 8, 2024

“>Vaea Fifita extention

Fifita said: “The Scarlets supporters and community have made me and my family feel really at home. This means a lot to me and is something I don’t take for granted.

“By extending my contract I am demonstrating the confidence and commitment I have in this club, the staff and the direction we are heading. As an experienced member of the squad, I want to help this exciting young team achieve success.

“I am now focused on starting the season as well as I can to help the team get off to a positive start. The start of every season is always exciting and we can’t wait to get out in front of our supporters again.”

Scarlets head coach Dwayne Peel said: “It is fantastic that Vaea has committed to the Scarlets with a contract extension. He is a world-class athlete who has become a favourite with supporters since he arrived at the club.

“He is a special player who can produce special moments – you only have to look at the tries he has scored for us. He is also one of the best lineout forwards in the URC, particularly on opposition ball.

“I have spoken about wanting to keep our best players at the Scarlets and Vaea staying with us, following on from other important retentions and signings in key positions, highlights our drive to push the club forward over the coming seasons.”