Bryn Gatland heads home as Chiefs also announce signing of promising young halfback

The Chiefs have today announced the signing of two key talents for next year's Super Rugby campaign.

First five Bryn Gatland and halfback Xavier Roe, who both spent their senior school years at Hamilton Boys' High, were announced as key signings for a side that struggled at times throughout 2020.

21-year-old Roe, who earned two caps for Taranaki prior to this year, was a key cog in an excellent Waikato backline during this year's Mitre 10 Cup. Gatland, meanwhile, was the competition's top points scorer.

Gatland is also the son of current Chiefs coach Warren Gatland. Clayton McMillan will take the reins for 2021, however, while Gatland takes control of the British and Irish Lions in South Africa.

Bryn said he was looking forward to joining the Chiefs for the upcoming season.

“I’m really excited to pull on the Gallagher Chiefs jersey next year and return home to family and friends to where I grew up and started my rugby dream. It will be a special moment if I get to pull on the Gallagher Chiefs jersey, and if it happens, I will do what I can to add to the legacy that is behind the jersey and Club.”

Gatland made his Super Rugby debut against the Hurricanes for the Blues in 2017. Following two seasons with the Blues, Gatland headed south to the Highlanders following an impressive performance for the New Zealand Provincial Barbarians in 2018.

McMillan said Gatland, who has signed a three-year deal with the Chiefs, is a welcome addition to the squad.

“Bryn was an instrumental figure in a very combative North Harbour team this year. He has proven to be a calm tactician, astute goal kicker, and is not shy of standing up in clutch moments. We believe he will be an asset to our Gallagher Chiefs squad, and I look forward to watching him further develop his game in our environment.”

Roe also said he was looking forward to joining the Chiefs on a two-year contract.

“I am super stoked to be a part of the Gallagher Chiefs for the next two seasons. The Gallagher Chiefs has always been the team I've aspired to play for. I remember heading along to Chiefs home games when I was a little kid so to have the opportunity to put on the Gallagher Chiefs jersey is very special.

“I am looking forward to learning as much as I can off both Webby (Brad Weber) and Triple T (Te Toiroa Tahuriorangi), who have both achieved the highest honours in New Zealand Rugby, so I'm sure I'll be able to learn a lot off them in the next couple of years.”

The Chiefs will announce their full squad on Thursday morning.

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