Tonga international Vaea Fifta signs contract extension with Scarlets

Scarlets have announced that Tonga international Vaea Fifta has signed a contract extension with the Welsh province.

Fifta joined Scarlets in 2022 and has featured in 35 appearances for the club scoring seven tries. He also had represented Wellington, Hurricanes and Wasps in the past.

The 32-year-old played 11 Tests for New Zealand between 2017 and 2019 before switching allegiance to Tonga ahead of the 2023 Rugby World Cup.

“The Scarlets supporters and community have made me and my family feel really at home. This means a lot to me and is something I don’t take for granted," he told the club's official website.

“By extending my contract I am demonstrating the confidence and commitment I have in this club, the staff and the direction we are heading. As an experienced member of the squad, I want to help this exciting young team achieve success.

“I am now focused on starting the season as well as I can to help the team get off to a positive start. The start of every season is always exciting and we can’t wait to get out in front of our supporters again.”

Scarlets head coach Dwayne Peel is delighted with Fifita remaining with the club.

“It is fantastic that Vaea has committed to the Scarlets with a contract extension. He is a world-class athlete who has become a favourite with supporters since he arrived at the club.

“He is a special player who can produce special moments – you only have to look at the tries he has scored for us. He is also one of the best line-out forwards in the URC, particularly on opposition ball.

“I have spoken about wanting to keep our best players at the Scarlets and Vaea staying with us, following on from other important retentions and signings in key positions, highlights our drive to push the club forward over the coming seasons.”