The Queensland Reds have boosted their pack, confirming the re-signing of Richie Asiata and Zane Nonggorr until 2024.
Both promising front-rowers have come through the Queensland pathways, with Asiata making his debut in 2021.
Since then, the hooker has established himself as the first-choice hooker for the Reds in Super Rugby Pacific, starting their last four games.
“It means a lot for me to re-sign for Queensland," Asiata said in a statement.
“My family lives here, which was the main reason to stay at Ballymore, as well as to continue to play for my home state.
“I’m looking forward to seeing what we can achieve as a team in the next few years here in Queensland.”
Meanwhile, Nonggorr was initially called into the Queensland squad as injury cover in 2020, making his debut later in the year in Super Rugby AU.
He would make his starting debut against the Rebels in round nine before a knee injury derailed his season.
“I’m really excited to re-sign at the Queensland Reds," he believes. “It’s my home state and I feel like I’ve improved my footy a lot in my time here. After getting my first start for the club and getting more minutes on the field, I’m really excited for the next couple of seasons.
“We’ve got such a close group of boys here and we have fun together and enjoy each other’s company. We’re playing some really good Rugby, so I’m keen to see where we can go.
“It’s unfortunate that I’m injured at the moment and can’t play, but the boys have been keeping my spirits up and now I can really focus on my rehab, play some club Rugby and make sure I’m prepared for a full pre-season and the 2023 season."
Reds General Manager – Professional Rugby Sam Cordingley was pleased to retain the pair, hoping they can build on their appearances heading forward.
“Richie has worked extremely hard on his game and himself physically over the last 18 months," he added.
“He has put himself in a great position with the injuries at hooker this season and he has been rewarded with some strong performances. We are looking forward to seeing his growth continue over the next few years. “We have been really pleased with Zane’s progress. He has come through the Queensland system as a young tighthead playing behind one of the best in the world, so he has had to be patient.
He was recently rewarded with his first start and has showed some outstanding progress. We expect that we’ll see him continue to improve into the future.”
