Super Rugby top try scorer Lam turns down move to Northern Hemisphere

Ben Lam has resisted the advances of Northern Hemisphere sides by agreeing a new deal with the Hurricanes.

There had been reported offers from Japan, France and the UK, but he's opted to stay.

The 26-year-old winger is the leading scorer in Super Rugby with eight tries for the New Zealand Conference high-fliers and has been rewarded with a deal until 2020.

Lam said: "I've really been impressed with everything about the club since I moved from Auckland and that has convinced me I want to be part of it for even longer.

"There are things we are all trying to achieve and I believe I can play a big part of that. I'm also really enjoying myself here so the decision was an easy one, really."

Hurricanes assistant coach Jason Holland is relieved that Lam is sticking with the club.

"Ben's shown already this season his qualities and we believe he can play a big part of our plans going forward," he said.

"He's the sort of guy you really want in and around your squad and the respect he has amongst his peers is obvious."

Ricky Riccitelli, who has started every match for the 2016 champions, has also extended his deal, signing on until the end of 2021.

The hooker also had no hesitation in committing to the Wellington-based franchise.

"The motivation for me was pretty simple," he said. "I want the Hurricanes to get to and stay at the top and I want to be part of it for the next three years.

"The club has played a big part in my development as a player and I want that to continue."

John Plumtree, who replaces Chris Boyd as head coach next season, is delighted to see Riccitelli extend his deal.

"He continues to do everything we ask of him and it's really important to us that he continues to be part of our squad and club as we move forward," he said.

"The fact that he has signed on for another three years shows just how important we think he is and the role he plays will continue to grow."

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