Hurricanes announce signing of forwards Brad Shields and Jeremy Thrush - Rugby News
The Wellington based New Zealand Super Rugby franchise, Hurricanes, has announced the signing of Brad Shields and Jeremy Thrush. The signings are considered vital for the Hurricanes preparations
for their 2012 Super Rugby season campaign, which were dented badly following the departure of a number of key players at the end of the 2011 season.
Officials at the club have announced the acquisition of Shield and Thrush on Friday, August 26. The club has handed over a two-year deal to Shields, while Thrush has inked a one-year contract
with an option of extending it by a year with mutual consent.
The signings has brought the total number of contracted players for the Hurricanes for next season to 24.
Hurricanes head coach, Mark Hammett, has expressed his delight on the signing of the pair of Shields and Thrush. He expressed his confidence that duo’s inclusion has strengthened their forwards
line for next seasons campaign.
Commenting on the signing of the utility forward Shields, Hammett said, “Brad's form and professional attitude in his first NPC competition and with the New Zealand Under-20 team makes him
an exciting prospect for next year.”
Hammett has further praised the skills and physical attributes of Shields.
Shields has expressed his satisfaction on signing the two-year deal with the Hurricane. He expressed his hope that the experience of playing for Hurricanes at the Super Rugby level will help
him to gain experience and improve his game. Shields further added, “It's hugely excited to be a part of something that I have dreamed of ever since I was a young fella and especially with the Hurricanes.”
Hammett has expressed a sigh of relief on retaining the services of their experienced and talent second row forward Thrush. He has praised the Thrush’s dynamic ball carrying, running and
ball handling skills.
Hammett added, “Jeremy, who made his 50th appearance for the franchise this year, is a strong leader and an experienced member of our squad. He is committed team member and we are thrilled
to have him on board in 2012.”
The 26-year-old Thrush has expressed his delight on signing the new deal with the club. He added, “There will be a young group of players and a strong will to succeed in 2012 and I am looking
forward to the challenge.”
The Auckland born Thrush made his Super Rugby debut for the Hurricanes against the Waratahs in 2008. He so far has made 37 Super Rugby appearances for the Hurricanes and has scored 25 points,
all coming from the tries.
The duo’s new contracts are subjected to their medical clearance.
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