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New Zealand sevens player Lote Raikabula will play his rugby out of Manawatu for the next two seasons.
The speedy Raikabula, formerly from Hawke's Bay, would give Manawatu firepower out wide, coach Dave Rennie said today.
"Lote gives us a bit more speed out wide and the ability to finish. We see his skills as highly transferable to the 15-man game."
Manawatu also confirmed captain Josh Bradnock, Nick Crosswell and Aaron James would stay until 2010 while props Grant Polson and David Te Moana have re-signed until the end of the 2009 season.
" These senior players will make a mark in the Air New Zealand Cup this year and beyond," Rennie said.
"It's great that players can now see long term opportunities and value from staying in the Manawatu," union chief executive Hadyn Smith said.
- NZPA
