Forwards pledge future to Exiles

FORWARD quartet Sebastian De Chaves, Dave Porecki, Ollie Hoskins and Harry Elrington have signed new contracts with London Irish.

South African lock De Chaves enjoyed a memorable first season with the club, ended with the players’ player of the year award.

And the 27-year-old says the decision to put pen-to-paper was a no brainer.

“I’ve loved every minute of my time at London Irish and I’m delighted to have committed my future to the club,” he said.

“We have shown this season that we’re more than capable of performing at the highest level and we now need to continue working hard towards the goal of cementing our place in the Aviva Premiership.”

Porecki, 25, joined Irish from Saracens last season and provides real competition in the role of hooker.

“Dave is a quality player who adds depth to our forward pack,” said director of rugby Nick Kennedy.

“I’m very pleased that he’s pledged his future to the club.”

Australian prop Hoskins is also set to extend his stay having arrived just over a year ago.

He said: “I’m thrilled to have extended my contract with London Irish, a club that is steeped in history and tradition.”

The fourth player to commit to the Exiles is academy product Elrington.

The 23-year-old was named young player of the season last year and Kennedy hopes he can be an example to the other youngsters at the club.

“Harry was the club’s first academy plus graduate and he’s shown what you can achieve with a lot of hard work and dedication,” he said.