Northampton agree new deal with Tonga international and All Black Junior World Championship winner Tuitavake

Tongan international centre Nafi Tuitavake has signed a one-year contract extension with Northampton Saints.

The New Zealand-born 29-year-old, who was in the same 2009 IRB Junior World Championships-winning All Blacks team as Aaron Cruden and Ken Pisi, has featured regularly throughout the last two seasons, making 29 appearances in total for Saints following his arrival from Narbonne in 2016.

Tuitavake has scored seven tries in his first two seasons at Franklin's Gardens, making his debut against French TOP 14 outfit Castres Olympique in the opening round of the Champions Cup in 2016.

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“I’m delighted to be staying at Saints for another year, a decision which was very easy for me to make,” said Tuitavake, who has earned eight international caps for Tonga.

“The support I have received from Saints’ supporters since I have arrived at the club has been very humbling and something I am very grateful for.

“I love pulling on the black, green and gold jersey and running out at the Gardens - when it’s in full voice it’s a special place to play.

“Things are looking very positive for next season and I can’t wait to get back out there again. We have a very talented squad with some truly world-class players, and the prospect of working with new coach Chris Boyd next season is a hugely exciting.”

Tuitavake also played for the New Zealand Sevens, participating in the 2008 World Rugby Sevens Series.

He made his debut for Tonga against Fiji in 2016 and helped them to reach the 2019 World Cup, where they will be placed in Pool C with England, France, Argentina and the USA.