Hawke's Bay Magpies rugby hooker Ricky Riccitelli has had his short-term injury cover contract with the Hurricanes extended.
Magpies head coach Craig Philpott said the Canes coaching staff has been impressed with Riccitelli's work ethic. A New Zealand under-20 player last year, Riccitelli, 20, will complete his studies in Wellington while training with the Canes but travel back to the Bay for his club commitments with Havelock North.
Philpott has finalised the Magpies' three pre-season fixtures. They will see at least 25 members of the wider training squad in action against the Manawatu Evergreens in Palmerston North on June 29 before 23-strong squads will be used in games against Manawatu in Palmerston North on July 30, Taranaki in Hawera on August 6 and North Harbour in Napier on August 13.
The Mitre 10 Premiership schedule is expected to be announced next month.
"We know which teams we are playing and the order. We're just waiting for venues and times to be finalised," Philpott added.
