Glasgow Warriors have been given a "massive boost" ahead of Saturday's RaboDirect Pro12 semi-final against Leinster in Dublin, with the decision of Niko Matawalu to extend his stay at the club.
The signing of the Fijian scrum-half was Gregor Townsend's first after the SRU loosened its purse strings in bidding to ensure greater success for last season's beaten semi-finalists, and his pace and verve have added an extra dimension to the team's attacking play.
Named last week in the Pro12 'dream team' selected by a panel of journalists, the 24-year-old also won the club's player-of-the-season award and, while he was already under contract until the end of next season, he has earned a pay rise and a longer-term deal.
"I've loved my first season in Glasgow and I am really excited to have signed an extension to my contract," Matawalu said yesterday. "Everything here is so professional and it's the best place for me to continue my development. I've learnt so much since I came to the Warriors and my game has really improved. I like playing in the PRO12, it's a strong league with a number of good players.
"We're a very close squad and I'm really enjoying my rugby just now. The supporters have been absolutely fantastic and I'm looking forward to playing in front of them at Scotstoun for at least another two years."
Townsend, meanwhile, indicated that the timing of the announcement had been calculated for maximum effect. "This will give everyone at the club a massive boost ahead of our semi-final," he said. "Niko is a very popular player and he's worked extremely hard since joining the club in the summer.
"He's become a real fans' favourite with his style of play and we're all delighted he's staying in Glasgow."
Leinster, meanwhile, have announced the appointment of Australian Matt O'Connor as their new head coach.
O'Connor, who currently holds the same role with Aviva Premiership club Leicester, has agreed a three-year contract and will join the Irish club on July 1.
He will succeed Joe Schmidt, who at the end of last month was appointed as the new Ireland coach after the sacking of Declan Kidney.
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