Chiefs coach Colin Cooper says they will be doing everything they can to keep new propping sensation, Karl Tu'inukuafe at the club next season.
Tu'inukuafe has become an instant folk hero following his weight‑loss tale back into rugby and his rapid rise up the ranks which saw him turn out for the All Blacks in last month’s test series against France.
But, such is the number of props the Chiefs have churned through this season, Tu'inukuafe of course does not have a Super Rugby contract beyond this year, with several front‑rowers already on the team's books for seasons coming.
Whispers are that talks with the Highlanders have been happening for 25‑year‑old loosehead Tu'inukuafe.
Cooper says they will do everything they can to keep him, batting away any suggestion they may be pushed for space in their ranks.
The Chiefs had six contracted props at season's start, with Nepo Laulala and Atu Moli locked in till the end of the 2020 season, Kane Hames and Sefo Kautai signed till 2019, with Mitchell Graham and Aidan Ross off contract after this campaign.
The Chiefs will host the Brumbies at 5.15pm this Saturday, the Hurricanes will face the Blues at 7.35pm while the Waratahs will host the Sunwolves at 9.45pm.
On Friday, eight time champions, the Crusaders will host the Highlanders at 7.35pm while the Reds will host the Rebels at 9.45pm.
On Sunday, the Bulls will take on the Jaguares at 1.05am while the Stormers will take on the Sharks at 3.15am.
[Source: stuff.co.nz]
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