Super rugby: Six Chiefs put names to renewed playing deals

The Chiefs have confirmed they have re-signed six players from their squad.

Utility back Gareth Anscombe and prop Ben Tameifuna have re-committed until 2014, while versatile back Andrew Horrell and hooker Rhys Marshall, prop Pauliasi Manu and lock Michael Fitzgerald have all re-signed until 2015.

Chiefs' coach Dave Rennie said they were all good players: "We've been really impressed with the contribution these men have made to our club and are rapt they are committing beyond this year."

Popular prop Ben Tameifuna said he was proud to call Chiefs country his home patch.

"The coaching and the support the Chiefs environment provides is the best I have come across and they know how to get the best out of their players," said Tameifuna.

Anscombe said he was grateful for the faith the defending champions had shown in him. New Zealand's Super Rugby top points scorer, he has excelled in the environment.

A regular first five-eighth who has spent much of the season playing out of position at fullback, he was delighted to have been offered a fresh contract.

"I am really enjoying the culture and the challenging environment which I believe has really helped grow my game and my confidence," said Anscombe.

The Chiefs snapped up former NZ Under-20 hooker Rhys Marshall and identified the 20-year-old as being a player with great potential.

Because of injuries in the squad, Marshall was given his first start before playing any ITM Cup matches and has revelled in the game time he has received this year. The Smedley Agricultural College graduate said the culture, the coaching staff, and the opportunities he had already been given were key factors in his decision to re-sign.

The Chiefs' next home game will be against the Hurricanes on Friday at Waikato Stadium.