Glasgow have given themselves a boost ahead of this weekend’s Rabodirect PRO12 semi-final at Leinster by signing Fijian favourite Niko Matavalu on a two-year contract extension.
The 24-year-old has been a sensation at Scotstoun this year, scoring nine tries in helping the Warriors into the play-offs and playing a big part in the club’s record number of bonus point wins during the season.
Matavalu had signed on for just one year at the beginning of this term having impressed Warriors officials with his displays in sevens rugby and for Fiji against Scotland last summer, but has surpassed all expectations.
Playing mostly scrum-half or wing he has quickly become a huge favourite with home fans and was named to the Rabodirect PRO12 team of the year at the weekend.
In addition, he scored a brilliant solo try for Fiji against England at Twickenham and was certain to be a signing target for rival clubs this summer.
However, Matavalu has now committed himself to Glasgow until 2015, saying: “I’ve loved my first season in Glasgow and I am really excited to have signed an extension to my contract.
“Everything here is so professional and it’s the best place for me to continue my development.
“I’ve learnt so much since I came to the Warriors and my game has really improved. I like playing in the PRO12 it’s a strong league with a number of good players.
“We’re a very close squad and I’m really enjoying my rugby just now. The supporters have been absolutely fantastic and I’m looking forward to playing in front of them at Scotstoun for at least another two years.”
Warriors head coach Gregor Townsend said it was the perfect boost heading into Saturday night’s big game in Dublin.
“Niko is a very popular player and he’s worked extremely hard since joining the club in the summer,” he said. “He’s become a real fans’ favourite with his style of play and we’re all delighted he’s staying in Glasgow.”
There was further good news for Glasgow when Townsend was voted the competition’s leading coach of the season.
And Warriors skipper Ally Kellock was named captain of the Pro12 Dream Team.