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Super Rugby: Nemani Nadolo signs new Canterbury Crusaders deal

Nemani Nadolo raced in a second Crusaders try shortly after half-time
Image: Nemani Nadolo: New deal for prolific Crusaders winger

Winger Nemani Nadolo has signed new two-year deal with the Canterbury Crusaders.

The Fijian star was the joint highest try-scorer in Super Rugby last season.

Nadolo's 12th try of the season in the Super Rugby final last weekend allowed him to match Israel Folau's tally but was not enough to prevent the New South Wales Waratahs from claiming the title with a dramatic 33-32 victory.

His signing for next season is a major boost to the Crusaders and their coach Todd Blackaddder.

Nemani has fitted so well into our environment. He is much loved by his team-mates and by our fans so we are thrilled that we will all be able to enjoy more of the big man next year.
Blackadder on Nadolo

"Nemani has fitted so well into our environment. He is much loved by his team-mates and by our fans so we are thrilled that we will all be able to enjoy more of the big man next year," Blackadder said.

Skills and presence

"The skills and presence that Nemani brings to this team are immense.

"He has been a vital part of our successes this year and the growth that we saw from when he joined the team to the end of this season is just an indication of how much more he has to give."

Nadolo, who is the cousin of Wallabies centre Tevita Kuridrani and former winger Lote Tuqiri, will see out his contract with Japanese club NEC Green Rockets before returning to the Crusaders next year.      

"I have loved playing here this season and I am grateful for all I have learned, the progress I've made, and the friendships I've formed," he said.

"I can't wait to come back next year and help this team take it even further in 2015.

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