Share

Blues lock in second row duo

Cape Town - Locks Scott Scrafton and Gerard Cowley-Tuioti have signed extended Super Rugby contracts with the Blues until 2019.

Auckland’s Scrafton and North Harbour’s Cowley-Tuioti both enjoyed outstanding performances in Super Rugby this year.

Cowley-Tuioti, 25, played in all 16 games for the Blues this season including the win over the British and Irish Lions with the 1.96m lock starting in 13 of his 16 matches.

Scrafton, 24, took until Round 8 to get his first start, but was a regular in their final nine games of the season, with the 2m lock proving outstanding at lineout and his general play.

“These players were arguably our most improved young players this season,” said Blues head coach Tana Umaga.

“They forced their way into the starting line-up on merit ahead of more experienced players and they produced for us game-in, game-out.

“They did their core roles well at set piece but also showed up strongly around the field and in defence and their attitudes were excellent. We see both of these young guys taking real leadership roles in the Blues going forward.”

They join All Black Patrick Tuipulotu in the Blues' middle row through to the end of the 2019 season.

This news comes after the recent signing of former NZ Under-20s captain Leni Apisai as well as talented young playmaker Otere Black, from the Hurricanes.

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Voting Booth
Should Siya Kolisi keep the captaincy as the Springboks build towards their World Cup title defence in 2027?
Please select an option Oops! Something went wrong, please try again later.
Results
Yes! Siya will only be 36 at the next World Cup. He can make it!
25% - 1273 votes
No! I think the smart thing to do is start again with a younger skipper ...
29% - 1472 votes
I'd keep Siya captain for now, but look to have someone else for 2027.
45% - 2251 votes
Vote
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE