Super Rugby's joint leading try scorer, Nemani Nadolo, has signed a contract extension that will keep him with the Crusaders for at least the next two seasons.

“We have loved having Nemani in the Crusaders this season, as have our fans," said Crusaders CEO Hamish Riach.

"So it gives me great pleasure to confirm that he will be returning to the team next year and in 2016."

“Nemani will return now to his NEC Green Rockets team in Japan and play out the season with them before joining the Crusaders in 2015. We are grateful to NEC for their cooperation and support in allowing Nemani to commit to the Crusaders and we look forward to continuing to work with them.”



Crusaders Head Coach Todd Blackadder said Nadolo has become a core figure in the Crusaders in his first season here and has a lot more to contribute.



“Nemani has fitted so well into our environment. He is much loved by his teammates and by our fans so we are thrilled that we will all be able to enjoy more of the big man next year.



“The skills and presence that Nemani brings to this team are immense. He has been a vital part of our successes this year and the growth that we saw from when he joined the team to the end of this season is just an indication of how much more he has to give.

"We are honoured to have the opportunity to continue working with such a talented and exciting player and to help him to be the very best player he can be,” Blackadder said.



Nadolo said he has had one of the most enjoyable periods in his playing career over the last six months with the Crusaders and he cannot wait to continue that in 2015.



“The Crusaders are a team I have always looked up to and I feel blessed to have been welcomed into this team. I have loved playing here this season and I am grateful for all I have learned, the progress I’ve made, and the friendships I’ve formed.

"I can’t wait to come back next year and help this team take it even further in 2015."

Nadolo crossed for 14 tries in his debut Super Rugby season, equalling the efforts of Israel Folau. He played 989 minutes across 14 appearances and beat 53 defenders; second only to Malakai Fekitoa (65) of the Highlanders.