Willis Halaholo has pledged his future to Cardiff Blues by signing a long-term contract to remain at Cardiff Arms Park.
The exciting centre has become a crowd favourite since arriving in the Welsh capital in 2016, with his electric footwork causing chaos throughout the Guinness PRO14.
He made a try-scoring debut against Benetton Rugby in 2016 and has gone on to make 57 appearances in total, scoring 13 tries in the process.
The former Super Rugby winner qualifies for Wales under residency next season and has reaffirmed his commitment to the Blues with this new deal.
He said: “I’m really happy to sign a new contract at Cardiff Blues. The welcome I have received since I arrived here has been awesome and my family absolutely love it.
“This has definitely become our home and I’m really excited about what the future holds for Cardiff Blues.
“We showed our potential last season by winning the European Challenge Cup and with so many exciting young players we can continue building and improving.
“We have a massive few weeks coming up and it would be an awesome achievement to make the Guinness PRO14 play-offs. That is my sole focus right now but looking further ahead we have a massive amount of potential and I want to be part of that.”
The 28-year-old, who grew up in Auckland and represented Tonga at U20 level, has formed a formidable partnership with former Hurricanes teammate Rey Lee-Lo in Cardiff and compliments a hugely competitive midfield.
Cardiff Blues head coach John Mulvihill was delighted to retain the hot-stepping centre’s services and believes he can get better and better at the Arms Park.
He added: “Willis is such an exciting player, who has shown what he is capable of with big moments in big matches.
“He qualifies for Wales in the autumn and is looking forward to a massive off-season to take himself to the next level and put himself in the frame for selection.
“He has become a really important member of the group and compliments the young players coming through our system and thrives upon that competition.
“Both Willis and his family are very happy and settled in Cardiff and we are delighted that he has decided to remain at the Arms Park.”
Halaholo is set to feature against the Scarlets on Friday night and tickets are available now. Click here or call 029 20 302030.