Southland re-sign two key forwards

Rugby Southland has scored two important post-season victories with the signings of lock Kane Thompson and flanker Hale T-Pole to one-year contracts.

Thompson came south on loan from Wellington this season and quickly formed an impressive combination with fellow-lock Hoani Macdonald, which became even more important when Daniel Quate's services were required on the blindside flank.

Thompson and former Southlander Jason Kawau were the two loan players used by Southland this season who were coming off contract. Negotiations with midfield back Kawau will continue.

The pressure was on to sign Thompson during the October transfer period so he would be available for Highlanders selection, where the mobile lock is a good chance of being included in the wider training squad.

Rugby Southland chief executive Roger Clark said the union would continue to chase Kawau but added it was a big relief to confirm both Thompson and T-Pole.

T-Pole was close to quitting the province last year after missing out on 2005 Super 12 selection but he's a strong possibility for being picked for the Highlanders for the revamped Super 14 next year despite missing most of the NPC with a dislocated shoulder.

Clark confirmed T-Pole had a clause in his contract that allowed him to explore other options if he does miss out on the Super 14 but said the star loose forward had played his best rugby in a Southland jersey and wanted to stay.

Talks with several other members of this year's Stags and development teams are continuing, including with winger Watisoni Lotawa, who was named Southland rookie of the year at the union's awards dinner on Wednesday night.

So far the only player who will definitely not be backing up from this season is No 8 Paul Miller, who has signed a two-year deal with Japanese club Kurita.

- nzpa