Loose forwards Boshier and Brown re-sign with Chiefs
Loose forwards Lachlan Boshier and Mitchell Brown have both extended their Super Rugby contracts with the Chiefs.
The Taranaki duo were off contract at the end of this year but have both re-signed with the club, Boshier through till the end of the 2021 season, with Brown till 2020.
Boshier, 24, debuted in 2016, and has now played 32 games, making a name for himself on both sides of the scrum, and this year starting the first two games at openside flanker in the absence of co-captain Sam Cane.
The former New Zealand Schools and New Zealand Under 20s rep said it was a no-brainer to extend his contract at his current franchise.
‘‘It was an easy decision to make for me to re-sign with the Chiefs,’’ he said. ‘‘I have really enjoyed my time here for the last couple of years and I am looking forward to continue with the team.’’
Brown, who has shown the versatility to also play lock, made his debut in 2016 as well, first wearing the Chiefs jersey in the historic win over Wales.
The 25-year-old, has now notched 23 games for the club, starting the first two games of this season at blindside, and was pleased to have the chance to continue.
‘‘It was a decision that I am really happy with,’’ he said. ‘‘I am grateful to have the opportunity and continue to learn and grow as a player within the Chiefs environment.’’
Chiefs coach Colin Cooper, who is in the second year of a three-year deal, was pleased to lock in a duo he’s had a bit to do with at provincial level as well.
‘‘It is great to have both Lachlan and Mitch sign on with us,’’ he said. ‘‘They are a great pair and have plenty more to offer the club.
‘‘They provide healthy competition in trainings and games as they fight to earn their place in the team.
‘‘By their peers they are always respected for their contribution both on and off [the field].’’
Chiefs chief executive Michael Collins noted ‘‘it is always pleasing to retain local talent from within our Chiefs region’’.