Rugby: Chiefs sign New Zealand under-20 forward

Ben Tameifuna of Hawke's Bay. Photo / Getty Images

New Zealand under-20 prop Ben Tameifuna has signed with the Chiefs franchise until 2013.

The 20-year-old, a member of the junior world championship-winning team, is a cousin of Chiefs player Sona Taumalolo. He was part of the ITM Cup Championship winning Hawkes Bay side this year catching the attention of Chiefs Coach Dave Rennie.

"Ben had a very strong ITM Cup, has a lot of ability and we're looking forward to getting him in our environment," Rennie said.

The Chiefs have also secured the services of former New Zealand Schools and Taranaki prop Shane Cleaver ,who is joining the squad for 2012. The 24-year-old dairy farmer has been part of the Hurricanes wider training group in previous years.

"Like this region, Taranaki is also known for quality front rowers and Shane was a big performer for them in this year's ITM Cup. We are looking forward to him bringing his experience to the group" Rennie said.