Rugby: Auckland boosted by new signings

Hawke’s Bay first-five Matthew Berquist is heading north to play for Auckland. Photo / Hawke's Bay Today

Auckland have secured the services of Hawke's Bay first five-eighth Matthew Berquist for this year's national provincial championship.

The 27-year-old pivot will be joined by former Chiefs and Highlanders halfback Toby Morland, who is returning from a short-term stint with Irish club Munster.

Auckland coach Mark Anscombe said he was thrilled to have two experienced campaigners join his squad.

"Matthew was one of Hawke's Bay's outstanding performers in last year's provincial competition and Toby will bring a lot of experience to a relatively young Auckland side in the key No 9 jersey," Anscombe said.

Both Morland and Berquist will join the squad within the next month.

The Auckland ITM Cup squad will be named mid July.

- NZ HERALD STAFF