Out-of-favour All Black Vaea Fifita among two key players re-signed by Hurricanes

The Hurricanes are excited to announce the re-signing of James Blackwell for the next three seasons of Super Rugby, and Vaea Fifita for 2021.

Fifita has been with the team since 2015, when he made his debut against the Blues in Auckland.

Since then, the Tongan-born loose forward and lock has gone on to play 67 games for the Super Rugby franchise, whilst also becoming a stalwart on the provincial scene for the Wellington Lions.

The 28-year-old says he feels grateful to be signing on for another year.

“First of all, I want to say thank you to the coaches and management for giving me another opportunity to come back. I love playing for the Hurricanes. They gave me the opportunity back in 2015 and it has become my home.”

Fifita says he’s excited about what 2021 could bring.

“For me, personally I want to help win another championship.”

“I also want to challenge and compete against myself everyday and get better and hopefully get back into the All Blacks environment.”

Fifita’s explosive speed and athleticism has been a major contributor to his success as a player – racking up a tally of 14 tries (70 points) for the Hurricanes in his career to date.

Head coach Jason Holland says he is a massive asset to the team.

“Vaea is an explosive athlete with x-factor. He is dangerous with ball in hand and is also a top-class lineout operator."