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Hurricanes re-sign pair of locks to extensions
By Ben Smith
The Hurricanes have re-signed locks Isaia Walker-Leawere and Caleb Delany on long-term deals.
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Walker-Leawere has inked a two-year extension until the end of 2026 while Delany will remain at the club until 2027.
The signings boost the forward depth for the next few seasons, an area of strength for the squad after a dominant pack in 2024.
Walker-Leawere has been with the club since his debut in 2018 and has reached 60 caps over his six seasons.
“I’m proud to be signing to be a Hurricane through to 2026,” said Walker-Leawere.
“The Hurricanes has been my home for the past six seasons, and I am grateful for the opportunity to continue playing for the club I call home.”
24-year-old Delany has come through the Wellington system into the Hurricanes squad, moving to the capital to join the Lions.
The hard-working lock has been one of the unheralded players of the season becoming one of the top lineout options.
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“I’m very happy,” said Delany, “I love this team, love the club, love where it’s going, and the culture.”
“I’m grateful for the time the Hurricanes have invested in me and gaining all this experience at a young age has been awesome. I’m keen to keep tracking here with the club and see where it all takes me in the future.”
Hurricanes head coach Clark Laidlaw was delighted with the deals, locking in two key players with the Hurricanes for the next few seasons.
“I’m delighted,” said Laidlaw.
“They’re two quality players who we think have a big future in the team and they’re going to get better. Having an ability to continue to improve is a big part of why we extend players and they’re two players who are excited about getting better and being here long-term.
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“While they’ve got a fair bit of experience, their best rugby is still ahead of them. They’re the main stay of the locks in the forward pack so it’s amazing to have them onboard.”
