Tasman Makos: News

Makos Confirms two Back line Signings
05-May-2009

By WAYNE MARTIN - The Nelson Mail

Former All Black Chris Jack's signature is not set in stone, but the Tasman Rugby Union has confirmed two new backline signings for this season's Air New Zealand Cup rugby campaign.

Jack has re-signed with the New Zealand Rugby Union until 2011, and is off contract with London club Saracens in June, having headed offshore after the 2007 World Cup.

The 67-test lock will rejoin the Crusaders from next season, with Tasman expected to regain his services for the 2010 Air New Zealand Cup competition.

The Tasman board's chairman of rugby, Shane Drummond, confirmed the union was in discussions with Jack, although nothing has been made official. Drummond emphasised any possible commitment by Jack would be for the 2010 domestic season.

However, Drummond confirmed Tasman now has former Waikato threequarter James Kamana and Manawatu five-eighth Matty James on their books, with Kamana scheduled to appear for his new club, Waimea Old Boys, this Saturday.

James is playing for Neath in the Welsh premiership and is not expected back in New Zealand until mid-May.

Kamana played 13 games for Waikato, but made an inauspicious appearance against Tasman two seasons ago, when he was knocked out early in their match at Blenheim, which Waikato won 25-23. He did not play in last season's 13-16 loss to Tasman in Hamilton.

James is well acquainted with Nelson, having spent about 10 years of his early childhood here before moving with his family to Palmerston North. He has played 25 games for Manawatu, scoring 145 points, and will realign himself with the Stoke club.

His father, Steve, played several seasons for the Stoke senior team and is a former Taranaki representative.

Tasman co-coach Bevan Cadwallader said the duo would add an exciting element to the team's back play.

"As a back coach, I'm pretty excited about both their signings really. With Matty, we've lost Miah [Nikora], and obviously James Marshall's continuing to develop, and Matty's a young fella who's only getting better as well. He's quite an exciting footballer.

"James came on the market and I've been quite impressed with him every time I've seen him play. He's got real finishing ability and he's quick and he can play wing or fullback. I think he just adds to our firepower really."

Kamana is also a former member of Gordon Tietjens' national sevens squad.