Two more years for Tagive
Glasgow Warriors winger Ratu Tagive has pledged his immediate future to the club, agreeing a new deal that will see him remain at Scotstoun until at least the summer of 2022.
The
28-year-old’s decision sees him become the thirteenth player to sign up for
more at Scotstoun, as incoming head coach Danny Wilson continues his
preparations for the 2020/21 campaign.
Having made
his debut for the Warriors back in February 2017, the winger has enjoyed a
breakthrough season in 2019/20.
Tries in
successive matches against the Southern Kings and Zebre saw Tagive start both
of Glasgow’s opening two Heineken Champions Cup matches, part of a tally of six
appearances to date this season.
The
Australian-born flyer’s form saw him rewarded with a first-ever call-up to the
senior Scotland squad ahead of the 2020 Guinness Six Nations, one of three
uncapped Warriors named in Gregor Townsend’s playing group.
His most recent outing in a Glasgow jersey camein last month’s bonus-point victory over the Dragons
at Scotstoun, playing 65 minutes and only being denied a try by the TMO.
“It was a
really easy decision for me,” Tagive told glasgowwarriors.org.
“I don’t
think I could have imagined going anywhere else to be honest. I saw Leone
[Nakarawa]’s interview when he re-signed in January, and he said he made the
choice to come back here because Glasgow was the first club to invest in him
and give him a shot. I feel the exact same way – the Warriors gave me my
initial crack, and to be able to pay that back and stay on makes me incredibly
happy.
“It’s been
an amazing year on the field for me. I couldn’t ask for much more – to get my
Heineken Champions Cup debut and then my first international call-up has been
incredible. More than anything, though, it’s been exciting to get out there and
be able to show what I can bring to the team.
“I can’t
thank the fans enough for their support so far this season, and I’m looking
forward to getting back out in front of them when everything gets back to
normal. Stay safe, and we’ll see you soon.”
Wilson also
expressed his delight at securing the services of the 6’3” winger for a further
two seasons, highlighting his growth as a player over the past three years.
“Ratu’s
development has been clear for all to see since he arrived at Scotstoun,” he
said.
“He’s
flourished as part of the Glasgow environment, and he’s established himself
firmly within the squad.
“His form
and desire to work hard for his team-mates was recognised with his
international call-up in January, and I’m really pleased that he’s committed
his future to the Warriors. I’m really looking forward to working with him.