Rugby: Talented trio to stay at Chiefs

Brad Weber has been in electric form for the Chiefs. Photo / File

Ahead of the Chiefs match against the Bulls in Rotorua on Friday, the Chiefs have resigned halfback Brad Weber, loose forward Johan Bardoul and lock Michael Allardice.

All three players have committed for the next two years and have been solid for the Chiefs so far this season.

Chiefs coach Dave Rennie said, "They're all good men with an excellent work ethic who have made big shifts in their game. We're rapt these men have committed long term."

Halfback Brad Weber has been in electric form, with the 24 year-old drawing attention with his speed and skill.

"I am really happy at the Chiefs and didn't want to leave," the former New Zealand Under-20s player said,

"We have consistency in coaching, which is important and I enjoy the family atmosphere.

"It is a very challenging environment but I believe that is really good for my rugby."

Both Johan Bardoul and Michael Allardice made their Super Rugby debuts this year and they have pleased the coaching staff.

Twenty-seven-year old Bardoul who represents Bay of Plenty, was a late starter to Super Rugby but is rapt to get an extension after his first season at this level.

"I love the environment, the boys and the coaching.

"I am learning lots and I want to win a Super Rugby Championship," he said.

"It is also great to have my future for the next two years sorted," said Bardoul.

Lock Michael Allardice has impressed both in his appearances for the Chiefs and in training.

The 2m forward is enjoying his rugby and Allardice believes that is important.

"I have loved my time at the Chiefs and couldn't see myself playing anywhere else.

"It was an easy decision for me to make, with the Chiefs great coaching staff, the playing environment and group behind the scenes," said the 23 year-old.

The Chiefs meet the Bulls at Rotorua International Stadium on Friday.

Meanwhile, Wallabies and NSW Waratahs hooker Tatafu Polota-Nau has been given another three weeks to recover from his latest bout of concussion.

Polota-Nau, who has a lengthy history of concussions, has already missed the Waratahs' two most recent matches after suffering a head knock against the Brumbies.

The decision means he will miss Saturday's grand final rematch with the Crusaders in Sydney and also the team's two tour matches in South Africa against the Lions and Cheetahs.

"There is no point in taking him to South Africa and having doubts over him," said coach Michael Cheika yesterday.

Polota-Nau also missed some game time after a head knock earlier in the season.

The latest schedule would have him returning in the last round home match against the Queensland Reds.

Cheika said he would give flanker Jacques Potgieter until tomorrow to overcome a sternum injury that kept him out of last weekend's win over the Sharks.