Siate Tokolahi
Hamilton based Super Rugby franchise the Chiefs have strengthened their squad for the 2015 season with the signings of two new forwards.
Prop Siate Tokolahi from Canterbury has signed with the Chiefs for the next two seasons and Hawke’s Bay lock Michael Allardice has signed for the 2015 season.
Tongan born, 22-year-old Tokolahi is an immensely strong player and can play both sides of the scrum.
rugbyweek
The former Auckland Sacred Heart and Christchurch St Beade’s college student joined the Canterbury academy in 2012 and was part of the Crusaders development squad last year.
Having spent six weeks with the Chiefs earlier during the year, Michael Allardice said it was an easy decision to make to join the Chiefs.
“I enjoyed my time up there and the environment and the coaches, so it was a bit of a no brainer for me.”
Twenty-two-year-old Allardice who will celebrate his 23rd birthday this weekend, is a former New Zealand Schools and New Zealand Universities representative. He was part of the Canterbury academy and completed his Commerce degree prior to making his ITM Cup debut for Hawke’s Bay in 2013.
He has played every game for Hawke’s Bay this season and was part of the team who has retained the Ranfurly Shield for the summer.
Allardice is a former Manawatu age-group representative and product of Palmerston North Boys’ High School.
Chiefs coach Dave Rennie said, “Both Mike and Siate will head into their first Super Rugby season on the back of strong ITM Cup form. They’re good men, top players and we look forward to working with them.”