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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.
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.
“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.
"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."
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Latest Comments
Be surprised if Ibitoye gets a call from Borthwick this week, which is a shame as he's been excellent for my club Bristol and definitely deserves a shot. I'm just not sure Borthwick needs another wing option given Feyi-Waboso, Sleighthome and Freeman are all in the mix. Plus, with the new kick-chase rules, I've heard Steward could be slotted in on the wing if Furback returns to 15.
For the center's, I think Borthwick definitely needs to explore some additional options. Mentioned on a another thread that Dingwall should be given a run out with Lawrence, but hadn't considered Beard, which sounds like a very viable option.
Willis absolutely has to be given a bench spot. We have some flexibility with Earl and Underhill if they both start, so there's every chance Willis will make an appearance against Japan. His ball carrying and the general chaos he causes should have been used against SA.
Hearing a lot about Clark and think in the absence of Chessum, Borthwick should start thinking about backup options. Not sure if he can, but if Clark can cover 6, then that would boost his chances, but think it might be unlikely he gets the nod against Japan.
For Pollock, think it's a bit too soon and there's plenty of other experienced options. Only other name not listed is Ted Hill.
Go to commentsNot another Kiwi complaining about the TMO. Seriously, stop whinging, concentrate on the wife beaters on your team you nasty little colonist clown.
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