Veteran hooker Anaru Rangi has been rewarded for his consistently strong form by signing a new two-year deal with the Melbourne Rebels.
Rangi joined the Rebels as one of the dozen ex-Western Force players to move east in 2017 and has developed a reputation as Rebels cult hero for his long hair, fearless charges and high workrate.
Though he's no spring chicken at 30, Rangi is extremely valued by the Rebels and he won the club's Player's Player award in 2018.
Melbourne coach Dave Wessels moved quickly to secure the hooker until the end of 2021; in a strong stable of hookers, alongside Wallabies hooker Jordan Uelese, Hugh Roach and Robbie Abel.
“It’s a great program, it’s an awesome place to live as well in Melbourne,” Rangi said.
“The lads and the coaches are comfortable (to be around) and I couldn’t think of any better place to continue my rugby
“It’s a place where I can develop my own game and the competition is great."
Rebels boss Baden Stephenson said: “Since arriving at the Club at the back end of 2017, Anaru has embodied the very spirit and values of the Melbourne Rebels, highlighted by his recognition as our 2018 Player’s Player.
“Anaru has shown great durability over the last two seasons playing 28 Super Rugby games. ‘Bopper’ throws his body into everything on the training paddock and under the lights on match day but also cares very deeply about the people at the Club.”
“Anaru’s quiet and humble nature masks a determined spirit which has quickly endeared him to the Rebels playing group, staff, commercial partners and fan base.
“His selflessness, team first mentality and intensity align very closely to the evolving culture at the Melbourne Rebels.”
The Rebels take on the Crusaders in Christchurch on Saturday and thought it’s a tough place to win, a victory would see the Rebels take a big step towards locking down their first finals berth.
"Obviously it's a big test but what excites me and the rest of the team is destiny is in our hands this weekend," Rangi said.
"It’s really exciting. I haven’t been part of a finals series just yet. I am just excited to get out there and crack on.
